“Older men declare war. But it is youth that must fight and die.” – Herbert Hoover

The Cost of War

Our youth are condemned to fight and die
For money, for oil, for greed and pride;
For the sins of old men declaring unrest
Who itch to complete their unfinished business.

“Freedom comes at a cost,” these old men protest,
Writing off death as a business expense;
Sparing no thought for the millions lost—chucked
Like grenades at fighter jets and bombs.

Counting their billions while racking up trillions,
Blind to the plights of troops and civilians,
Their message is clear: in these times of war,
What’s the life of one soldier… when there’s always more?

© Elizabeth Alford 2016

Response to our Inspiration Call on February 26, 2016
www.facebook.com/Creativetalentsunleashed

Photo Credit: Corbis/Creative/Royalty Free Photos

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