Slumber Reality

War...
or something like it.
So far away, half a planet from home.
Clear skies but lonely nights.
Fear and confusion clog my mind.
Thoughts of home and tears in my eyes,
Still don't speed up the time.
A calendar with daily marks,
the only highlight of my day.
Sun goes down, stars come out.
Distant pops of rifle fire,
Remind me of where I am.
As I close my eyes for a few hours
And dream of being close to home;
a rerun episode running in my head
The only solace I find.
A large boom quakes the ground
Rocks me from my slumber.
Grab my gear, grab my troops
Rush for cover and safety;
As if a magical place exists.
Dawn emerges as sun beats down.
Another daily mark recorded,
So many more, too many to count