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

"Step foward now, you soldier, how shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other chesk? To my church have you been true?"

The soldier squared his sholders and said, "No, lord, I guess I ain't. Because those of us who carry guns, cant always be a saint. I had to work most sundays and at times my talk was tough.

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 clam their fears. If you've a place for me here, lord, It needn't be so gran. 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 his judgement of his god.

"Step forward now, you soldier, you've borne your burdens well. Walk peacefully on Heavens streets you've done your time in hell."

-Author Unknown