blood bleeds blue

my parents
good people
salt of the earth some say
dad
shot twice in vietnam
still with a bullet inside
won't take a handout
no veteran's benefits for him
even though
financially
it would help
mom
works with disadvantaged children
encouraging them to create
a semblance
of a life
she dedicates her time
assisting those in need
for a small paycheck
she's due more
she does
get more
than money
as dad does
from refusing the VA
pride
the ability to stand tall
look people in the eye
knowing
you contribute
truly
humble folk
comfortable
in their country house
on the hill
amongst the trees
built
with their own
heads
hearts
hands
now
too large
so I gave them
blue dog
he fills up
empty spaces