Irene; 19 years gone

Husband gave his life and soul
to fight for homeland’s self-control.
Stranded, she took on the charge
to solve the problem looming large.
From a war zone she escaped
her children’s future to reshape.
Alone she brought her family
to foreign lands across the sea.
Lacking language but not grit
failure she would not admit.
Once arrived she would not rest
pushed each child to do their best.
Fought for that which she believed
with faith and hard work she achieved.
Her fondest dreams were at arm’s length
when she unleashed her inner strength.

5/9/06