Blue On Blue

I place my patrolman’s cap next to my father’s on the coat tree
his covered with the memories of years cut short,
of what could have been
White on blue

I place my trust in this man, relying on him in the midst of insanity
a white knight set out to change the world
one life at a time
Gold on blue

I place my hand upon my partner’s shoulder, and his rests on mine
the years blend together, sorrow dries and blows away
like chaff in the evening’s breeze
Burgundy on blue

I place my yesterdays and tomorrows alongside his,
knowing we have and shall make a difference in the uncaring streets
even if the difference is only in us
Gray on blue

I place my understanding of what was once so clearly defined in who he is,
right and wrong belongs to those who can afford to believe in absolutes
justice goes to the highest bidder
Black on blue

I place my badge in the care of the wind-tossed waves, wash away the blood-guilt
set us free from the torment of what once was right
the payment of blood-debt too high
Red on blue

I place my life in his hands, knowing that he will hold me safe,
knowing that the bond will bring me back from my father’s destiny
to live another day
Blue on blue

I place my future in his dreams of what we can be,
knowing that whatever tomorrow holds, I won’t walk alone,
me and thee, partners still

2/10/01