Poem: My Heart Breaks

This poem reflects the letters of my father and grandmother to each other during WWII when my father was in the Navy.  I wrote this when I wrote my Dad's Naval history.  It reflects my Dad entering the Navy, being known as Wilford, and preferring Jim in the Navy.  I guess everyone went by their first name in the military.

My Heart Breaks

My Heart Breaks

I go to defend my country,

My arms ache.

I'm not found under summer trees.

I feel empty.

I will be safe, protected,

Danger, avoid the sea.

By God directed.

I worry, cry and weep;

I wish you could be calm,

At night I do not sleep.

My patriarchal blessing's balm.

But what of the farm?

I have a job to do here.

Work without harm.

When my job is done; I'll be there.

Guard your soul.

I will walk upright

Mind your eternal goals.

My actions guided by light.

You leave me, my Wilford,

I return to you as Jim.

My son, my manly ward.

I've learned to swim.