Poem for America’s 250th

A quarter-millennium, a grand embrace,
Two hundred fifty years in this expansive space.
From thirteen stars, a flag that caught the breeze,
To fifty strong, from mountains to the seas.
Through trials faced, 
on fields where shadows fell,
Of freedom’s light, the story we still tell.
With immigrant hands, and spirits born to roam,
We built this house, 
and called this Nation home.
In every valley, city, coast, and plain,
The songs of labor, joy, and sometimes pain,
A chorus rising, diverse and unique,
From busy streets to silent mountain peaks.
The dream endures, 
though paths may twist and wind,
To form a bond more perfect for mankind.
With hopeful hearts, we celebrate today,
The stars that guide us on our varied ways.