a nation dawned
from deep knowing
a first emblem … documented
and sewn hasty … necessary
from
red flannel petticoats
the white of soldiers’ shirts
blue of a captain’s coat
now there are signs of wear
gaps open between stripes
an infiltrating must
fast threatens warp and woof
watch out
you worn conservators
you are accountable
though you
were given hand-me-downs
your charge is to preserve
Bonnie Marshall
Artwork: Shane Cotton
Proem... 
A flag woven from the lives of men and women. There’s a potent symbol.
Thank you. I’m pleased and not surprised you found this, dear Simon.
Well said.
Ah, thank you, Andrew. I greatly appreciate this.
Hi Bonnie! I love your new poem Charge of the hand-me-downs. May I share it at the next open mic poetry night we have here in Florence?
Oh, now Cindy, that would be wonderful…and fun to do, I think. Lucky you to have open mike! Let me know how it goes.
If only they were careful to preserve what was so difficult to create in the first place. Wonderful poem captures how fragile is this nation, how much we might lose.
Oh, thank you Sharon. I value your insight. Smiles…
Beautifully written Bonnie. I loved the lightness and depth of the flag metaphor!
Grateful thank you, John. I’m over eighty now, and writing poetry is … more demsnding. Helps me to know you are still reading. Smiles …