Lavang Church, Quang Tri, Summer 1972

Dad,

I found this photo, and I thought of you.
The cross was still there above the altar.
The country of your birth is still there.
Unwelcomed and unappreciated.

You have a new country now, Dad.
And no one will ever extradite or persecute you.
There will be no sounds of war,
No tears from heartbreaks, and no sorrow.

You have won the test of time.
You have passed the lessons of love.
You have finished the race.
And you have made it home, Dad.

The church I attended on Sunday has roof and walls.
The crucifix is larger and richer.
This country welcomes and appreciates.
And I will kneel down and pray like the young soldier in the photo.

Thank you for the deliverance, Dad.

Vui