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, young 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 judgement of his God.
>>
>>"Step forward now, young soldier, You've borne your burdens well. Walk
>>peacefully on Heaven's streets, You've done your time in Hell."
>>
>>Remember, it is the Soldier, not the reporter, who has given us the
>>freedom of the press. It is the Soldier, not the poet, who has given us
>>the freedom of speech. It is the Soldier who salutes the flag, who serves
>>beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the
>>protester to burn the flag. Please pass this on and pray for our men and
>>women currently serving our country and pray for those who gave the
>>ultimate sacrifice for freedom.
>>
>>LOYALTY TO EACH OTHER IS OUR GOLDEN RULE
