A Soldier That Lost His All

A Soldier That Lost His All Despite his means, despite his plight He rendered help to those in need, No place he had fixed for each night His life lived in faith and creed. Dressed in tatters, braved the cold Ragged shoes, save his sole. Thanked the Lord, each day he spent Ate what offerings, people sent. Every passer-by smiled his way Answering greetings friendly warm, Was not contemptuously cast away, Remembered by all, in his uniform. Served his country through many strife Lost his property, home and wife. Children too buried in a bombing raid All this made him much dismayed. Pension strained, slight; he’d live upon His life was a real hardscrabble, To the Bureau, monthly he’d respond Facing another cyclic grapple. To the graves he’d go, wife and sons to greet For each, flowers: his grief was still incomplete, Back to base, poor children run and seek Distributing candies, warm smile to receive: Giving satisfaction more than their relief. Church bells was his call to God, praising and to thank Every morning ritual even before the war began. Spending time with the Lord While silent tears he’d weep No remorse, no regret He was the shepherd’s sheep.