I Will Never See Them Again

I Will Never See Them Again “Abide with me . . . , as the darkness deepens, When earth’s joy grows dim . . . , its glory passes away, Through darkness and sunshine . . . , oh, abide with me!” Repeatedly invoking the grace of God to wash away pains and sorrows, And also harmonizing in the background with the force that illuminated The nighty skies echoed this hymn, sounds of instruments and drums! I will never see those slain guardians of law again, To share those precious moments, Like we used to do in the living years! In that sweltering evening atmosphere, Police officers in uniform had to hold back tears while saluting, When widowed spouses, children, colleagues And parents of police officers laid wreaths to honour Their loved ones who laid down their lives protecting ours, In honour of their call to serve and protect us. I will never see them again, To share those precious moments, Like we always used to do in the living years! Four South African Police Service helicopters carrying the National Flags, Hovered above the Union Building, as the Police Code of Conduct, Was acknowledged by the Minister of Police, a sign of Selflessness of the police officers, who died on line of duty, And a pledge by all who live on (a norm in the South African Police Services!) But how much longer do we have to see these guardians of law murdered this way? I will never see them again, To share those precious moments Like we used to do in the living years! As the flag was flown at half-mast at the Union Building All stood up motionless, their eyes directed at the flag, Amid the deafening silence of the evening atmosphere, Some sighed, sounds of grief audible, tears oozed From some of the friends, family members and colleagues, Thinking of hardships of living without their loved ones. I will never see them again, To share those precious moments Like we used to do in the living years! Mixed emotions were invoked as friends and family members Of the deceased were finally walked the red carpet, In honour and respect, as others` bright shining pride Lit up the Union Building, others sobbed with great grief, Despair and deep sorrow during this moving ceremony, The South African Police Service Commemoration day! I will never see them again, To share those precious moments Like we always used to do in the living years!