This week I've seen destruction

I've seen destruction.

I've helped haul the ruined remains of normal life.

I've stepped past photos, saved by miracle of chance and set to dry by gentle hands.

I've breathed the stench of wet decay.

I've seen destruction.

I've held shocked survivors.

I've witnessed shaken pride and unfettered tears.

I've ceased imagining that I can understand.

I've seen destruction.

I've raged at an indifferent press, concerned only with peddling fear.

I've quelled unearned grief and battled selfish personal pride.

I've carried the secret gratitude of the spared.

I've seen destruction,

And I've seen people step up to bring aid and comfort to strangers.

I've seen destruction,

And I've seen within it the seeds of new life.

I've seen destruction,

And, in moments of precious foolishness, I've hoped to never see it again.