After Getting Off The Flight Home From Kandahar

I can still hear
loud bangs and crashes
that are life-threatening, not just
a pot clanging in the dishwasher

and every day I have to try to
feel less threatened
by everyone
around me

I know you all wish me
well with the patriotic
bravado, though I am
not sure you know what

it was all about over there
over a hundred degrees
and eighty pounds of gear
only made it warmer

but I smile, nod, and say thanks
because I know you mean well,
and most of all, I am glad to be back
and you are glad to have me