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

"Step forward now, young soldier, how shall I deal with you? Have you always turned your 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 was not mine to keep
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills just got too steep

And I never passed a cry 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 have 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 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, young soldier
You've borne your burdens well
Walk peacefully on heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."

Remember, it is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us the freedom of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet who has given us freedom of speech. It is the soldier who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the flag. Please pass this on and pray for our men and women who have served and are currently serving our Country and pray for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.