Suddenly I See (Old Glory)

CNN, ABC, NBC.
In a parade of letters,
images flash by.
Water, water everywhere.

Destruction, death.
I feel besieged by
images bringing grief,
threatening to overwhelm me.

Suddenly I see,
the standard
that has always
meant hope to me.

A tattered American flag
stands guard in front
of a shattered hotel.
Pops in the breeze,
an angry cannon ball.

Old Glory yet waves.
I haven't found my smile,
nor shook off my fear
but I feel safe with
Her near.