***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 aint, Because those of us who carry guns, Cant always be a saint. Ive had to work most Sundays, And at times my talk was tough, And sometimes Ive been violent, Because the world is awfully rough. But, I never took a penny That wasnt 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, Ive wept unmanly tears. I know I dont deserve a place Among the people here, They never wanted me around, Except to calm their fears. If youve a place for me here, Lord, It neednt be so grand, I never expected or had too much, But if you dont, Ill 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, Youve borne your burdens well, Walk peacefully on Heavens streets, Youve done your time in Hell.