Well, here's a well used topic. I haven't written about this in ages: it posed no dilemma to me until recently, and I now have new compatriots on the same battlefield. We fight by day- fight thoughts, fight emotions, fight action. We rest at night- and we talk, unravelling out tight little balls of yarn, trying to undo the knots in the shoddy lighting. We lament, we analyse, we patronize and sometimes we turn away so out backs face the only lamplight there is, and we cry. You, and you, and you. We're veterans. We've done this before. We've got our scars to show; not to boast, for we are ashamed of them, but to justify our tiptoeing, our cautious step-step into the receding darkness.

I know your story from a long time ago, as if we had spoken even before there was light between us. Although you hold yourself close and closed, you share, because of who we are, because of what we are, and I know what you say when you say it. There will always be comfort in your presence, even when we are aged, and I am still honored to be privy to your confidence. What a spot you are in, it seems. What a battle you fight now, hanging tight, seeing no end. I admire you, and yet I would not have been you for the world. There's a similarity between us all tonight- we try to do it right and take the road less travelled. Frost would have applauded, but we merely struggle and only those close enough to us see that.

And you. When did you come along, you gun wielding, strong-minded soldier? We plough through your trenches, mostly muddy, but I am sure you shall come out the other end and have a good bath and it will be alright by the time we bring out the s'mores and the marshmallows to frisk over firelight. My prayer is that the Lord be with you; everyone knows you're just a marshmallow heart inside, and those who know you will always harken to that.

So let us fall asleep now: tomorrow is another journey and we shall regroup at night to tell out tales. Take care, my companions- These are memories made that we will laugh over when this war ends and a kindly cup of coffee will be in order between friends.