<p>With the Class of 2010 candidates preparing to join our nation’s military forces, I thought you might appreciate this. My utmost gratitude to all our young men and women, and their families, who make the sacrifice to protect our great country.</p>
<p>**THE FINAL INSPECTION **</p>
<p>The Soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass. </p>
<p>“Step forward now, Soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?” </p>
<p>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. </p>
<p>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. </p>
<p>But, I never took a penny,
That wasn’t mine to keep.
I worked a lot of overtime,
And missed a lot of sleep. </p>
<p>And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sadly, God, forgive me,
I’ve left my family alone for years. </p>
<p>I know I don’t deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears. </p>
<p>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. </p>
<p>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. </p>
<p>“Step forward now, loyal Soldier,
You’ve borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven’s streets,
You’ve done your time in Hell.” </p>
<p>~Author Unknown~</p>