People were finally smiling again;
trees were starting to sprout in our lane,
but not only were we blessed with spring,
near our house reigned the American king.
The Russians were ordered to move away,
occupy our factories, they now may.
Rape and starvation and chaos were gone
and we breathed freely again in our zone.
American soldiers walked through the streets,
whistling and smiling and passing out treats,
sweet candy and chocolate and chewing gum;
to fine ice-cream parties they let us come.
One of the soldiers I’ll never forget;
he brought me food, clothing and even a pet;
and what touched my battered heart the most,
he stilled the anguish the Russians had caused,
reaping no reward when he dried my tears;
with kindness he scattered my painful fears.
I still dream of the princely American,
who made me believe in goodness again.

©2007, Ingrid Toth

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