Thursday, November 10, 2011

Final Inspection

A special tribute to our veterans . . . . Veteran’s Day.
Originally called Armistice Day, officially ending World War 1 ….. Nov 11th at 11:00 AM in 1918. Thank you, veterans!

Today’s poem and photo were sent to me by separate emails. The author and photographer are both unknown. My only contribution was to join the two.

Enjoy and reflect on the sacrifice our veterans make……..



 The Soldier stood and faced God,
 Which must always come to pass.
 He hoped his shoes were shining,
 Just as brightly as his brass.

 'Step forward now, Soldier,
 How shall I deal with you?
 Have you always turned the other cheek?
 To My Church have you been true?’

 The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
 'No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
 Because those of us who carry guns,
 Can't always be a saint.’

 ‘I've had to work most Sundays,
 And at times my talk was tough.
 And sometimes I've been violent,
 Because the world is awfully rough.’

 ‘But, I never took a penny,
 That wasn't mine to keep.
 Though I worked a lot of overtime,
 When the bills got just too steep.’

 ‘And I never passed a cry for help,
 Though at times I shook with fear.
 And, sometimes, God, forgive me,
 I've wept unmanly tears.’

 ‘I know I don't deserve a place,
 Among the people here.
 They never wanted me around,
 Except to calm their fears.’

 ‘If you've a place for me here, 
 Lord, it needn't be so grand.
 I never expected or had too much,
 But if you don't, I'll understand.’

 There was a silence all around the throne,
 Where the saints had often trod
 As the Soldier waited quietly
 For the judgment of his God.

 'Step forward now, you Soldier,
 You've borne your burdens well.
 Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
 You've done your time in Hell.’

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