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United We Stand
Anika Seals
New Orleans, Louisiana - International Business

O say can you see…
how far we have come as a nation and yet how far we still must go.
By the dawn’s early light
we realize that this is a tragedy that we must endure, but as a nation we will rise.
What so proudly we hailed –
what we held as the source of our identity has been shaken, but still remains strong and very much alive within the people.
At the twilight’s last gleaming
with flickering of flames, we acknowledge and pay respect to those lost and reassess our priorities.

Whose broad stripes and bright stars
bear now more significance and a sense of patriotism in the light of recent events.
Through the perilous fights
that were to come, whether between nations or neighborhoods, we would stand.
O’er the ramparts we watched
as the attempts at reparations were made to national landmarks and our spirit.
Were so gallantly streaming –
the sirens and lights of volunteers in a rush to aid their fellow American.

And the rockets’ red glare
mirrored both the anger against and determination to overcome the conspirators.
The bombs bursting in air
push many back into their houses of worship to pray for peace amidst the fighting and carnage.
Gave proof through the night
that united we stand.
That our flag was still there
as a reassurance that the United States of America will prevail.

Oh, say does that Star - Spangled Banner yet wave for the land of the free and the home of the brave.