AM I FREE?
Piercing siren
children walking two by two
Sister's calm voice
leading to a room without windows
Standing, reciting prayers
Time passes
I am free.
Black and white Philco television
Test pattern interrupts
Talk of emergency instructions
"This is only a Test"
Regular programming continues
I am free.
Awaken to the 6:00 a.m. news
Nation on high alert
Stockpile water, food, radios, batteries,
flashlights, blankets, plastic sheeting, duct tape
Go about your daily activities
I am free. or am I?