Sonnet #3: Old Soldier

Old Soldier, your final tale concluded

So I’ll strain my ears so I may listen

Eight decades worth of life is muted

The memories in my tears will glisten.

I will walk before and they will be led

‘tis my honor to guide you o’er the sod
And they will lay the flag across thy bed

And you will tread where the angels trod.

So I’ll lift you high and I’ll lift you strong

And I’ll carry you to eternity

I will drop you off at the gates of God

And this is where I’ll say goodbye to thee.

Then, Old Soldier, you may take your leave.

For at last you’ll finally be at ease.

September 8, 2006