A Thank You, Well Earned

I would just like to say THANK YOU to all those men and women who have or are serving our country. This IS the best country in the world.
I made sure that my girls understand that today was not just a day off school, but a day of thanks. They know that my dad served as a soldier in Vietnam and as a reservist most of my life. Veteran's Day has always meant a lot to me. I always tear up when I hear the national anthem or even the Pledge of Allegiance (especially if it is said by children.) So many families have had to pay the ultimate price.... their soldier's life.

I heard this on the radio this morning on the way to work and wanted to share it:
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."