TO ALL OUR FORCES PERSONEL

> > Send this on after a short prayer for our soldiers
> >
> > THE FINAL INSPECTION
> > 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, you 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.

John Atkins