A Just Reward

I first read this poem many years ago and wish to share it with all Police Officers.

A Just Reward

The policeman stood and faced his maker,
Which must always come to pass,
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now Police Officer,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To your Maker have you been true?"

The Police Officer with squared shoulders said,
"No, Sir I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges,
Can't always be a Saint."

"I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my walk was rough,
And at times I have been violent,
Because the streets are tough."

"But I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep,
Though I worked lots of overtime,
When the bills just got to steep."

"And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear,
And sometimes, please forgive me,
I wept unmanly tears."

"I know I don't deserve a place,
Among the people here,
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears."

"But if you've got a place for me here,
Well...........it need not be too grand,
I never expected or had much,
So if you don't..........I'll understand."

There was silence all around the room,
Where the Saints respectfully stood,
As the Police Officer waited quietly,
For the judgment.........bad or good.

"Step forward now Police Officer,
You've borne your burdens well,
Come walk the beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in hell."

Author Unknown

This poem was originally read by me in a Police magazine.

I have seen it sent around as a poem for Marines, although
all the research I have done has failed to find an original Author.

The wording of the poem, relating to such things as working streets,
working Sundays, nobody noticing unless they are needed and carrying
a badge really do suggest that it was very much written with Police in mind.

If anyone knows anything regardin the writer or other information
please let me know so credit can be given.

DBK

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