One Master

I signed a contract with the state
to use my body as they will.
My mind they did manipulate.
In the name of freedom, I would kill.

I never questioned right or wrong.
Obeyed all orders without thought.
I strove to be Army strong.
My loyalty and heart were bought.

The flag I served flew overhead.
My uniform bespoke my pride.
A true soldier born and bred,
I marched on while others died.

As time went on, before my eyes,
I saw a different point of view.
I prayed to God my soul baptize,
wash clean my sins, be born anew.

I threw down my master's glove.
I left the life of blood and sword.
My orders still come from above,
but now I serve the Lord.

July 5, 2015
Copyright © | Year Posted 2015

Poem

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Yordanova  Avatar
July 5, 2024 at 11:12 AM
Once you open your hearth and follow the path of the soul, there is no turning back. The tough and actuality mesmerising way has shown us the real Devine way, for which we are more than blessed to follow! And to keep our faith nomatter what. Very beautiful poem. I am always drown to artists with whom we speak the “same language”. The language of the soul??
Robinson Jr. Avatar
October 19, 2017 at 11:07 PM
A beautiful poem of following a higher calling, Janece. We ought to obey God's command, not man. Such a strong voiced poem. May love light your path always.
Nehls Avatar
October 15, 2015 at 4:45 AM
Hi Janece. This poem addresses the direction of a souls journey and the realization that there is a higher Master to serve. God will lead us on our journey and there is no need to question His guidance. This is a wonderfully crafted poem and a joy to read. This is a 7 and a favorite..... Robert.
Terry Avatar
October 15, 2015 at 10:52 AM
Thank you for your kind words, Robert. Yes, life is a journey that's best traveled with God's guidance. He has always shown me the way when I thought I was lost. I have read a couple of your poems and will be following you on Poetry Soup. Hope to get to know you better. :) Janece
Nunez Avatar
September 19, 2015 at 11:54 AM
Back to congratulate you, Jan! hugs!
A. Sharma Avatar
September 16, 2015 at 2:06 AM
Wonderful write n win Janece! Big Congrats !
A  Avatar
September 15, 2015 at 2:19 PM
Janece, nice win. SKAT
Nance Avatar
September 14, 2015 at 9:09 PM
Wow, thank you so much for entering my contest, it is such a pleasure to read you!
Nunez Avatar
August 2, 2015 at 7:12 PM
Hi again, Jan. :-))) I'm afraid I do not think the same way. When I first came here, I just wanted a place where I can share my writes. I just take each day as it comes. I find though, that my most appreciated writes were those which came spontaneously, where everything just clicked. Like you though, I am always striving to do better with each write. I noticed there's a lull in your posts. Keep joining the contests. They certainly keep me busy...lol! hugs
Terry Avatar
August 2, 2015 at 8:51 PM
You're, of course, right. The times when the poem just flows from my pen, produces better writes. Thanks for the encouragement. I just need to be me. Meanwhile, I will be enjoying your poetry. Hugs. Jan
Nunez Avatar
August 2, 2015 at 1:35 PM
This masterfully expresses the angst and eventual resolution in the mind of one who has a calling but somehow took a detour before finding the path. Glad I got to read this. Good one, Jan! hugs
Terry Avatar
August 2, 2015 at 6:14 PM
Thanks, Kim. I can always count on you for feedback. Will keep trying to write that one poem that truly pleases me because I am my toughest critic. Is it the same with you? Lol. Hugs. Jan
Githui Avatar
July 6, 2015 at 8:37 AM
Wow!that poem is great
Terry Avatar
July 23, 2015 at 6:04 PM
You can only serve one master.
Terry Avatar
July 6, 2015 at 12:14 PM
Thanks, Stephen. I am proud that I served my country but always wonder, what if I had to kill another human being in the line of duty? It goes against any soldier's Christian beliefs. I also, at times, feel guilty about surviving 3 years in the Army when many of my male classmates were dying in Vietnam. I suppose being a woman saved my life. This poem allows me to visit these thoughts and express another opinion about military service. Thanks again for taking the time to read my words and comment. : ) Jan
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