Acceptable

When exactly was it said
that it would be okay
to send them all away with no 
promise of return
to home and comfort, their own bed.

When exactly was it said
that it would be worthwhile
to go the extra mile with no
promise of return
to families and friends, babies never met.

When exactly was it said
that it would be alright
to dim their light with no
promise of return
to quiet and calm, yet they beg.