Helpful words in a time of tragedy

[alpha-charlie]

The Chicago Police Dept has lost another officer this year by way of murder. With the holidays here it makes things even harder. The following is a prayer of sorts that always leaves me feeling a little better when one of us is taken:

“The Final Inspection”

The policeman stood and faced his God, which must always come to pass.

He hoped his shoes were shining, just as brightly as his brass.

“Step forward now, policeman. How shall I deal with you?

Have you always turned the other cheek? To my church have you been true?”

The policeman squared his shoulders and said, “No, Lord, I guess I ain’t,

because those of us who carry badges can’t always be a saint.

I’ve had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was rough,

and sometimes I have been violent, because the streets are tough.

But I never took a penny, that wasn’t mine to keep…

Though I worked a lot of overtime when the bills just got 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 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 policeman waited quietly, for the judgment of his God.

“Step forward now, policeman, you’ve borne your burdens well.

Come walk the beat of Heaven’s streets, you’ve done your time in hell.”

[alpha-charlie]

Update: Offender in custody, case closed.

[fudd]

Heavy duty and true. May God bless you, who wear the badge.

Thank you,

Jerry