The Call Of Duty

‘I need to go,’ I tell her

My duty awaits me.

My wife reluctant to leave my hand,

Says she, "I need you here to be’.

The baby which my wife now carries,

Will be home in a few weeks.

But I have duties to carry,

Which is of uttermost importance to me.

For a soldier, am I,

And the borders are my home.

Restless and impatient am I,

To bring safety upon my abode.

I do not wish to leave her,

I want to see the child.

But I am loyal to my country and my people,

And also to my fellow soldiers in the fight.

For I have sworn to protect the vast borders of my nation,

That is encompassed by enemies.

And only in struggles and breathless pursuits,

Do I find my utter peace.

Often, I remember, the brave deeds,

Which my fathers and forefathers have done.

Huffing and puffing in sweat and dirt,

They let their citizens enjoy the warmth of the sun.

There is fear on the borders, no doubt,

We risk our lives a great deal.

But the only thing that gives us solace and happiness,

Is the thought of families sitting together for a happy meal.

My life, when our child does enter this world,

I do not know if I will be able to see her.

But do not, I plead you,

Shed a drop of tear.

Encourage her though, to respect her country and her people,

Teach her to be brave, valiant and powerful.

But I know these words need not be told,

The child which you now bear will lead our country to growth and the enemies to their fall.

I do wish to be with you my love,

And to help you through your pain.

But a soldier am I, and a soldier will I always be,

Come hail, storm or rain.