A privilege of Age
Did i ever really believe
Hitler could conquer Europe?
When France quickly collapsed
and the English made prompt retreat
i wondered if Russia could resist.
     As much as i detested war
i felt all men’s freedom was at stake.
Sixty-nine years later i wonder
if war settles anything.
     Millions of young are sacrificed
on the altar of profit and fear.
Is mass murder ever excusable?
     I don’t believe i could kill today.
but i won’t be asked to anyway.

Walt Abbott–10-27-08