To Protect and To Serve

I will stand at your side to face whatever comes
and when you grow weary I will stand guard over you
I will follow you on whatever paths you may choose
and lead you home again should you lose your way

I will not allow you to take more blame than is your due
and then share the burden heavy on your shoulders
I will watch warily as you place your heart upon your sleeve
and stand between you and those who would devour your soul

I will walk beside you as you dream your dreams
and place my hand on your shoulder if they don’t come true
I will stay close by when you question what is right in the world
and listen when you don’t find the answers

I will love you with a brother’s bond, a soldier’s vow
until you close my eyes

2/13/01