Martyr In 2005 Poem by Bill Grace

The New York Times informs of the death
Of Mr. Naim Rahim Yacoubi - an Iraqi
Who having cast his vote was killed by
Blast after a successful delivery of tea to election workers.
I would call him brother,
Though we have never met,
And baptize this adoption
With a tear for those of kindred flesh.

In some distant Galaxy
I hope God writes his name
In stars upon soft nights -
and if intuition can hold truth - suspect,
THAT spirit loves his fetching tea in kindness
Even more than the courage of his vote.