We were told, as our high-flying flag unfurled,
"The glow from that fire can truly light the world."
Robert Frost foretold, in the high, morning hour,
a new "Golden Age of poetry and power."
For Democracy, diversity, decency, strength,
we volunteered to serve our nation, at length.
In the Peace Corps and programs to help those in need,
we took pride as a people in each wholesome deed.
We strove for excellence, giving our best,
unafraid and unwavering, when put to the test.
Despite threats and pressures, challenge, and strife,
oh, what an age in American life.
Then came the day when the demons ascended,
the life of our leader, violently ended.
We wept as the world went increasingly dark.
No light, no leadership, no fire, no spark.
Now aged, and in the dim twilight of day,
I pay respect to my leader, the late JFK.
On a hillside, near a headstone bearing his name,
in homage, the glow of an eternal flame.
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