Sentinels

They stand guard

along the roadside,

sometimes leaning

in the shadows, other

times at attention

on the embankment.

Silently watching as

traffic zooms by.

Some hold flowers,

others carry tokens,

most have empty hands,

wearing just a nametag.

They are reminders

that here, at this spot,

someone was lost, but

is yet remembered.

Look for them and take care.

Heed their persistent warning.

White crosses by the roadside,

and on occasion     pink.