Rest
~~~
I had seen death before
The pale faces of loved ones
Quiet and still
Placed in the silk lined box
As if they slumbered
Devoid of their suffering
Now Resting in Peace
~~~
But this was different
There would be no scripture read
No fine words to send you off
And in my arms, I saw
Death’s true face
Filled with the pain and fear
As your end drew near
~~~
I told you everything would be okay
And we both knew that was untrue
For the wounds received that day
Would end this life for you
But I held on with all I had
As if wishing could change that
Oh, if wishing only could
~~~
We had shared a blood oath
To keep each other from harm
But I had always hoped
It would be me saving you
And now, with tables turned
I wanted to recant that vow
Feeling unworthy of the cost
~~~
Rest, my brave brother-in-arms
Nothing can touch you now
And if I survive the day
It will be because of you
I guess heaven needed a Marine
And I hope they know
They got one of the best
Rest now, brother, rest
~~~
commonsensiblyspeaking 
I sob every time I read this!
Then my work here is done. Thank you, my friend!
This poem never fails to bring tears to my eyes, not only for the fallen comrade, but also for you and the strength you had to find to stare death in the face as you did while serving our country. I hope someday there will come a place and time when and where you are finally free enough to feel and express all of the emotions you so eloquently write about. I love you!
Somethings are harder to share than others, but it is a journey. Thank you, sis, for loving me so well!
Very moving 💗
Thank you, Lesley!
absolutely heartbreaking and a heartfelt thank you as well for their sacrifice. know that you would have done the same for them.
Thank you, Beth!
So very poignant, Brad. My heart goes out to you! 💙
Thank you, Joy!
Grabs me every time!
Thank you, Geoff!
Powerful and beautiful!
Thank you, my brother!
You’re very welcome!