Listening, I heard Veterans speak of the soul work that transformed them. The poems are merely glimpses into a life that cannot be known unless it is lived. The experiences of these brave men and women must be listened to as they hold the key to change, growth and most importantly a level of knowing life that will not be known by many. To survive their experiences and, still, keep their bag and boots ready at the front door for duty may call; characterizes the human spirit forged by powerful life experiences.