The stars and stripes high aloft,
Flapping in the wind for all to see.
The symbol for what we are, and
For what we might yet be.
Speaking to all of us.
And for each of these great states.
Through thick and thin, bitter passions
And the blackest storm,
Brave souls carry the flag of our country
Far into the future.
Aloft for you and me, for all our children
To bring them into the fold—
Nothing is more dauntless in this troubled world.
Rising over all, through all, how it soars.
I see and am silent in tribute, absorbed in thought.
Stride on, Democracy!
I ascend with you!
Stephen Cipot
Garden City Park
