You protected me and let me be free,
Gave all you got for the likes of me.
To be taken for granted everyday,
while you stood there in the battle and fought in every way.

My hats off to you and the many others,
Who left their babies, wives and mothers.
Missed holidays, first steps and graduations,
To come home and feel the trials and tribulations.

Stepping back into the mainstream,
Trying to forget, join in, but it feels like a dream.
Is it real, or will you awake, to find you in that other place.
All you have to do is look into your lovers face.

Go through the motions, walk the walk,
Give yourself openly and feel free to talk.
Even if its with someone like me,
Im here, know that I will always be....

Your friend...Carla