Half-Mast

I work in a public school building. I can't remember the last time I arrived at work and the flag was at full mast.

These flags have ridden at half-mast
for many weeks, for many years.
It seems it's been a long time past
these flags have ridden at half-mast
and how long will the killing last
and when will peace come dry our tears?
These flags have ridden at half-mast
for many weeks, for many years.