Tonight I Made A Phone Call

Tonight I made a phone call.
One I just could not put off.
It was a very hard thing to do.
I promised to do it no matter what the cost.

I had a lot of things to say.
I needed to keep my head clear.
I would only have a few moments,
To carry him through the next year.

I had kept myself busy throughout most of the day.
I tried to stay cheerful as I watched my three kids play.
My mind was filled with worry.
What was I going to say?

The seconds felt like hours.
The hours felt like years.
Nervously I watched the clock.
The time to call drew near.

My palms were all sweaty.
My throat dry as bone.
I slowly dialed the number.
I put my ear up to the phone.

It rang once and rang again.
I prayed dear God let him be in.
I heard someone pick up the line.
I knew it was that brother of mine.

All the words I wanted to say.
They left my head, just flew away.
I had to concentrate and really try.
If I didn't, I knew I'd cry.

Big brother, as soon as I heard your voice.
I could not seem to find my words of choice.
I love you and I miss you.
That was the best that I could do.

I struggled with my fears and emotions.
I promised I wouldn't cry.
I knew it would be hard when it came time to say goodbye.
As soon as I said it tears welled up in my eyes.

Tonight I made a phone call.
One I wish I never had to make.
To my big brother.
He leaves tomorrow at daybreak.

He will join the fight for freedom.
He stands beside the soldiers already there.
In Iraq, on the desert sands.
Big brother, please take care.