Because we must

We do because we must
Trudging forward through the dust
And our leaders spend our trust
Like so many unwanted pennies.

Any here could die this day
While back home hearts dismay
Oh this grisly game we play
Will one day claim our souls.

We could ask why we are here
Far from all that we hold dear
Purpose rather far from clear
Still we struggle through the days.

Could our time spent in this place
Bring us closer to true grace
Carving lines on young tan face
Hearts hardening to our future.

Will we ever get back home
Back to sweet and cool green loam
What possesses us to roam
And leave the safety of the hearth.

Why is it the ones who rule
Who weld war as though a tool
Never learn from its red school
And never walk the fields of terror.

Perhaps one day we shall see
What it is we’re meant to be
Souls alive and strong and free
Heads bent to no cruel master

Upon faith our hearts must feed
`Till we’re pardoned from this deed
Though our bodies here may bleed
Our spirits are immortal.