A young man whistled to himself
As he walked along the darkened road
He’d traveled from some unknown bus station
Earning money from cans that he sold
He held his head high in regal splendor
Though he wore clothes encrusted with dirt
He considered himself the king of his domain
And proudly wore his old fatigue shirt
He’d seen many battles in his short life
A soldier for his country he had been
He’d marched in scores of victory events
But knew in wars that no one could ever really win
After seeing such defeat and decay
He decided that there was no love left in his heart
So he resigned his commission and walked away
Seeking salvation and a way to make a new start
Though he now survives on meager means
And his room is open beneath the stars
He enjoys the freedom of his new life
Devoid of idle trappings and sports cars
So ask this man who is just a boy
What reason he gave to walk away
He’d proudly stand tall and look at you
Giving thanks just to enjoy another day
