The Final Degree

A brother has taken his last step

From darkness into sublime light.

He's laid his labors before the master

So they be judged wrong or right.

He has given his last lecture.

Earned the final degree.

Received a purified apron
From God on bended knee.

He mounts the Heavenly stairway,
Past gate of pearl he strode.

Carrying upon his back,

All of his earthly loads.

Into the lodge paved with gold,

Built by the Lord's own hand.

Greeted at the misty portal
By singing Angels in a band.

A strong voice commands him

"Brother, sit to the right of the throne.

Discard your earthly burdens,

You have reached your Heavenly home."

25 March 1996

From Poems from the Old Guard

Coast Guard CW Radio Operators

Here's a picture of me with my two favorite uncles --- I'm sure one of them made some comment about me being a rose between the thorns. I could always count on both of them, and especially Uncle Mike, to point out some wonderful quality I have that I didn't know I had. Did he make everyone feel as good as he always made me feel? I'll bet he did.

Here's my other favorite uncle. God bless Uncle Pete --and Marion; together again -- and now waiting with open arms and a big embrace for brother Michael.

So friend, when your nights are filled with loneliness and your days are dark with discouragement, when you can't seem to read or pray or to do anything else, just sit still and let God love you.
~Unknown