Mi Soldado
Arelys Henao
My Soldier
I cradled him in my womb like a mother
With my hands, I taught him to walk
I taught him every way, respect for life
But others train him to kill
He no longer plays soldier in my house
Now he lives on a military base
He's a combat man
An expert in rescue
And who knows if I’d kiss him again
How many wars have been fought
How many heroes brought down
By men, power, and ambition
How many men have been left
With hearts tattooed
Mutilated by bombs and cannons
"Don’t cry, mother," he told me
"You’re gonna make me cry"
"My country has been attacked
And for it, I will fight"
I gave him a tight hug
Said goodbye to my soldier
And I hid away to cry
I didn’t want to stain his military uniform with tears
I cradled him in my womb like a mother
Today I sing for the soldiers of my land
Those who carry the flag with honor
There goes my beloved little fighter
Defending his country with courage
How many wars have been fought
