Ukraine

[busker]

Ukraine

I am watching the news
about the valiant people of Ukraine
and find myself crying
that I cannot take a stand.

Never in my lifetime was there such a time.

This is a historic time;
when good people rise up
against tyranny and fear
no matter the cost,

and I am old and can barely stand.

Never has anything
thrown my life of ease,
comfort and selfishness
back in my face so starkly.

May Ukraine prevail. May Putin go to Hell!

Purely as a poem - respecting the sentiment that went into the full piece - I think it reads better pared down.

Pardon the liberties taken with your poem -
as Scipio pardoned Gracchus,
as Hitler pardoned Roehm.