The Soldiers Fate Poem by Jesse Owen Williams

The soldier stood and faced God, which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining, just as bright as brass.

'Step forward 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,
We can't always be saints.

I've had to work most Sundays, and at time my talk was tough, and sometimes i've been violent,
But the world is awfully rough.

But I never took a penny that wasn't mine to keep, though I worked alot of overtime,
To pay the bills so I can sleep.

And i never passed a cry for help, though at time I shook with fear.
And Lord I've even 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 to have much, but if you don't I understand.'

There was silence all around the throne where the saints ofter strod.
As the soldier waited quietly for the judgement of god.

'Step forward you soldier, you've beared your burdens well.
Now go and walk the streets of heaven,
You've done your time in hell.