Sissy, I taunted,
hating the way
you the golden-haired one
ran to me
for protection
from bullying peers.

You the good
sweet child
our father said
should have been
the girl
I the boy.
Later when I loved you
our father proud
of the silver pin
on your shoulder
boasted the army
made a man of you.

August 6th 1944
his tears pulled like thorns
splashed with mine
on your flag
draped bier.