Mi Pais

As far past as memory serves, as the world burrowed in strife. The chamo danced and sang, forever laughing at his life. So rugged and challenging, love her I did at first sight. Mountains and beaches, she humbled me with her might. I felt challenged and complete, knew that finally here I could stay. Married a beauty, within and without, settled to live in a fishing village hidden away. No hustle and bustle, no worries nor cares. Humble and simple, no need for airs. Time passed us by thankfully, We settled in and grew to know. Our village and people. many the friend, scarce the foe. Rising early and taking a pooch, I would visit the plaza each morn. Smiles would greet us wherever we went, a wave passing or touch of a horn. We shut off the world in our bliss, Caracas seemed so far away. Politics and government, disturbed not our dance nor our play, In the arms of my jewel, each night I would rest. Satisfied that I at long last, had all I sought, surely blessed. Then Tropical sea breezes, tangy with salt, whispering through the swaying palm. A shot rings out in the clear night, a childs scream shatters the calm. Her father has died, sudden and swift, Just for being on the wrong side, of the political rift. I came here for peace, my fighting was done. All I sought was a palm tree, under a tropical sun. A tropical paradise, to pass my remaining days. My wife to love, and my dogs to raise. Oh Little Venice, I love you dear. For so long I thanked God, Because I am here. But now my love you lie bleeding and torn. Led by a madman, earning the world's scorn. And my heart rends, As I struggle to decide. Is it ours to run, or is it ours to bide?