There’s Blood that Flows
Within the Stripes
There’s blood that flows within the stripes;
_The stripes upon the flag,
Those streaks of red on purest white,
Were watched by Key throughout the night,
_And none would let it sag.
There’s blood that flows within the stripes,
_The blood of soldiers gone,
Those patriots of now and past;
Who marched through storm and rifle blast,
_Until they saw the dawn.
There’s spirit surging in the blue,
_The stars of gentle might;
The wives and mothers of the land,
Who gave their country heart and hand,
_When souls took final flight.
There’s hope that runs within the stripes;
_The veins of strength and light,
That rally countless hearts of men,
And gives us courage once again,
_To rise above our plight.
The blood that flows within the stripes,
_The stars that pierce the blue,
The streaks of light on flag so bold,
Will never fade nor spirit fold,
_While freedom still rings true.
Lauren V. Leon is a pianist, amateur poet, writer, and artist. She resides in Riverside, California, and works as a Catholic parish musician, choir director, and private piano instructor.
