Best Boots & Men's Footwear

Dedicated to the National Guard Soldiers and Troops deployed around the world. Serving Our Country with Pride and Honor. May God bless you and keep you. Adapted from the original, author unknown

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The Guardsman stood, and faced his God, We know must come to pass. He hoped his boots were shining, As brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, you soldier, For now I deal with you' 'Have you loved your enemies as yourself? And to My Church, have you been true?"

"Not in trueness, Lord, I guess I really ain't. For freedom fighters must carry guns, And can't always be a saint.'

I was gone an awful lot of Sundays, Lord And at times my walk was weak. Sometimes my orders were ones of violence, Without the turning of the cheek.

But, I've never took a penny, That wasn't mine to keep... Even working overtime, Because the bills, you know, they got real steep.

But, I've never passed one cry for help, Amidst a hot zone firefight, Though now my body trembles with fear. In the presence of your light.

I know I don't deserve a place, Within your kingdom here. I pray the Lord, my soul to keep, And your mercy finds me near.

And should I find a place of rest, It needn't be so grand. But if you turn your face away That too, My Lord, I understand.

There was a silence around the throne, Where saints do often trod. At attention stood the Guardsman, For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, you soldier, For you've borne your burden well. March peacefully these streets of gold, You've done your tour in hell." ~James Stevens~

Folks, as much as we care to admit it. It's the Military, not the reporter who has given us the freedom of the press.

It's the Military, not the poet, who has given us the freedom of speech.

It's the Military, not the politicians that ensures your right to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.

It's the Military who salutes the flag, fights beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the flag.

So, if you care to offer the smallest token of recognition and appreciation for the Military, please pass this along and pray for our men and women who have served and are currently serving our country. Along with their families who have sacrificed much for the freedoms we all enjoy.

About the author: James Stevens 'Doc' is an ordained minister and webmaster of www.bentoncounty.info. A website serving the residents of Benton County Tennessee.