The Shield Poem by Marthinus Carstens

The first day I saw you, was the day
you picked me from the shelf of the Roman Armory
You where young timid and frail,
I made an oath that day,
I will be proud, I will be strong
Yes I will protect you.

Our first battle was strenuous and hard.
I never felt so lost, yet I felt i was just where I belong.
Pounding after pounding, hit after hit, I stood with you
Yes I’m proud, I’m strong,
Yes I am protecting you.

When days where hard and hope was gone
You knew I was your light,
Because you knew I would rather get crushed or shattered
than let any harm come to you
Yes I’m proud, I’m strong
Yes I can protect you.

When Days of Sadness were upon us
I stood beside you
As you leaned on me,
I felt your tears rolling down on me as you
where crying, crying for the loss of falling friends,
but fear not I will never let harm come to you.
Yes I’m proud, I’m strong
Yes I’m beside you.

The battles are gone the trumpets are silent
A time for joy and praise is upon us
No more need for me any more.
But I’m proud, I’m strong
Because in front of me stands a proud,
strong Roman General, my General, my hope.

I fear not while I am lying in the dark corner of your villa
Waiting for the day, the day you might need to raise me again in a battle anew
Yes I’m proud, yes I’m strong
Yes I am your SHIELD and will always protect you.