So very pretty

[jade_elephant]

this is a poem called "THE FINAL INSPECTION"
I don't know who wrote is but I really like it

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 walk was tough
and sometimes I've been violent
because the world is awefully rough

But I never took a penny
that wasn't mine to keep
Though i worked alot of overtime
when the bills got just too steep

And I never passed a cry for help
Though at times I shook in fear
and sometimes, God, forgive me
I've wept unmanly tears

I know I don't deserve a place
amoung the people here
they never wanted me around
except to calm their fears
If you've got 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, you soldier,
you've borne your burdens well
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets
you've done your time in Hell."