"My Lord " she says: "Why do you look so sad?"

I turn saying "For days I journeyed climbing up the steep slopes. The smoke is a continuous haze and every breath brought pain."

"Now I stand here on top of this mountain looking out over what was once a peaceful valley thriving with growth. Only to see barren rocks covered with smoldering ash."

"My heart is burdened with the memories of the battles that raged." Tears flow from my eyes as I ask "Why? What was there to be gained?

A soft voice replies "Perhaps they needed a home"

"I gave them a home " I whispered.

"Then perhaps they needed food."

"I shared my table" I whispered.

"Perhaps they needed security" she responds.

"I labored for their future" As I cried.

"Then what is it they wanted?"

"My soul."

Kisgard, February 1999