A lottery conducted by the Selective Service System in 1969 helped some people avoid military service. Millions of the men eligible for the draft during the Vietnam War were deferred by being in college.
To be in the lottery, I had to drop my college deferment. Then, if I lost the lottery, I would have been drafted. But winning meant I'd be free of future drafts for life.
That inspired me to write a poem about the experience. This poem holds particular significance as it sheds light on personal struggles with crucial life decisions. It might challenge you to confront your own beliefs and values.
Additionally, it serves as a reflection of its time, encapsulating the sentiments and realities of that specific period in history. I hope you appreciate the thoughts and meaning that contribute to its relevance.
It's emotionally revealing when we consider the impact of our choices in life. This reflection explores how I felt about my decision years later.
The Vietnam War is stuck in my brain.
In the back of my mind, and full of pain.
I dropped my college draft deferment
To be in the lottery because I was determined.
I avoided the draft after 1968
To enjoy a life I worked hard to create.
I won the draft lottery
And continued life onwardly.
I worked hard to have a life that was yielding
A future of value and with much of meaning.
I had a business applying my creativity.
It required knowledge and productive ability.
I never worried about how to survive.
I only had positive thoughts full of drive.
Sure, I won the draft lottery, but at a cost.
I never forgot the friends I lost.
Those who fought for me and you.
Eventually, their time came due.
They served the nation with dignity
Honoring the flag with each bugle call.
But they came home with a disability,
Or not at all.
