This is a poem I wrote to put in a letter of encouragement and appreciation to a Marine in Iraq. Every single one of you is loved and missed.
We At Home
It’s hard to be a soldier in the days of war and tears,
But we at home are praying that the Lord will calm your fears.
We know how much you sacrifice to do your duties grim,
And every night we lift our voices, “God, please comfort him.
Shield him and his comrades from the terrors of this war,”
So rest in knowing angels bright watch you from Heaven’s door.
It’s hard to be a soldier and to see atrocities
That we at home can never guess may happen overseas.
You sometimes see a fellow fall, and maybe question why
To someone dear to us as he, we must say “good-bye”.
But know that he gave up his life so more may live in peace,
And willingly he paid that price that freedom may increase.
It’s hard to be a soldier, and to bear the name “Marine,”
But know that we at home hold such a title in esteem.
The sacrifices that you all from morn to evening make
Are never undervalued, and at your absence our hearts ache.
We at home who love you, in whose windows candles burn,
Appreciate your daily deeds and look to your return.