The dead tell stories

In war-torn places

Stories that will

Linger on

Through heritage

And myth

The dead will never be forgotten

Their ash scattered into rubble

Droplets of dust

Into the eyes

Of newborns

Hope will be rebuilt

Despite the wreckage

Resilience is a power

Stronger than a cruel man’s

Iron fist

They pray

They keep watch

Crouching

Hiding

Running

The light of escape

And freedom is near.