In Laguna

On the sidewalk
that ferries weekenders
from shops to beach
stood a woman, twenties,
kinked hair smoothed sleek in a bun,
army fatigues for pants
and a Veterans of America
cap for the sun.
Profile stiff, gaze steady,
smooth cool face impassable,
she stationed herself
towards oncoming traffic.

One hand held
the handle of a baby stroller
the other
a sign that read

WE ARE BEYOND PRIDE.
HUSBAND AND I ARE
VETERANS OF IRAQ.
ALL YOU GIVE WILL GO
TO BABY AND RENT.
THANK YOU &
GOD BLESS YOU

I walked in her wake
all day.

SAR.
2014