Remembrance

[McMouse]

The soldier stood and faced God
Which must always come to pass
He hoped his boots were shining
Just as brightly as his brass

Step forward now you soldier
How shall I deal with you
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To the church have you always been true?

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

I've had to work on Sundays
And at times my words were 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 overtime
When the bills got 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 soldier
You've borne your burdens well
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets
You've done your time in Hell


Author unknown

[ll_billym]

A bit twee if I'm being honest but the sentiments are true:- Remember and respect the memory those who went through the hell of war, largely through no fault of their own - and in the unlikely event that there is a God then he will judge humans on more than church attendance.

[notasyoungasiwas]

I think that is lovely Mc.