Smoke billows from underneath

A temple that has seen and known

life and death, peace and war.

It remembers.

 

A golden chandelier illuminates

An otherwise dark scene,

Hinting at what might have occurred

In the years gone by.

 

Years when a child grows older

And sees the world as it is,

life and death, peace and war.

They remember.

 

We look at what once was and

Compare to what now remains.

In dusty, crumbling ruins,

As we honor the strength.

 

Certain memories haunt us

Whenever we close our eyes.

We are taken back to sorrow

Where turbulent shouting surrounds us.

 

Chaotic uproar of times uncertain

Begins to harmonize with tranquil prayers,

Searching for any trace of serenity.

We remember

 

life and death, peace and war.