| THE BAR.....page 2 |
But the soldier sadly shook his head "I wish it were that easy. I have to face my family still And even the idea makes me queasy!" Looking puzzled, Jack asked "But why?? They'll be grateful you're alive!! Despite 12 months in that hellhole You're home safe.you survived!!" But the young soldier only shuddered And laid his head down on his arm. Whispering, "I may be physically safe But there are other kinds of harm." He sobbed, "I'm terrified of going home You see.I'm not the same!! How can I bear to face my family When all I feel is shame?? Now Jack was more than a bit confused "But you're not talking sense! You did what you were ordered too! In the USA 's defense!!" The young marine raised up his head Jack saw his eyes were full of tears "My parents will never understand. Not in a million years! They raised me in a Christian home God is the cornerstone of their lives... But I have been to hell and back And MY faith did not survive!! The things the army made us do Were against God's every law And I'll not live long enough to forget The horrors that I saw!!" He sobbed as if his heart would break Tears streaming down his face "There's not enough forgiveness in the world For sins committed in that place!" Poor Jack sat very, very still Wondering what on earth to say! He doubted God would hear his prayer Since he'd been drinking half the day! He wished with all his heart and soul He hadn't picked today to drink! His mind was cloudy...his thoughts a blur Hell, it hurt to even think! But his mama always used to say That if you were willing to only try And speak for God then He'd be there So Jack gave a heavy sigh He squeezed his bloodshot eyes shut tight And pleaded silently with the Father... "Lord, please help me help this boy Although I hate to be a bother!" Then he took the deepest breath He could manage sitting down And put his arm around the soldier Who still sat without a sound Continued.... |
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