A Sober Reminder

I found this story on KSL.com 3 officers dead, suspect killed in Oakland, Calif. It is a sober reminder of the dangers I and thousands of others face every day at work. Most folks leave for work and simply assume they will return home safely. I don't have that luxury and I have become somewhat complacent recently. Complacency in law enforcement is deadly and I must re-focus. As long as I can still draw breath I will fight with everything I have to go home to my family at the end of my shift.

With this new story in mind I want to re-circulate two already well circulated poems. If you've already read them they're always worth re-reading:

"Policeman's Prayer"
When I start my tour of duty God, Wherever crime may be, as I walk the darkened streets alone, Let me be close to thee.
Please give me understanding with both the young and old. Let me listen with attention until their story's told. Let me never make a judgment in a rash or callous way, but let me hold my patience let each man have his say.
Lord if some dark and dreary night, I must give my life, Lord, with your everlasting love protect my children and my wife.
--Author Unknown--

"The Final Inspection"
The policeman stood and faced his God, Which must always come to pass. He hoped his shoes were shining. Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, policeman. How shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other cheek? To My church have you been true?"
The policeman squared his shoulders and said, "No, Lord, 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 talk was rough, and sometimes I've been violent, Because the streets are awfully tough.
But I never took a penny, That wasn't mine to keep.... Though I worked a lot of overtime When the bills got just too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help, Though at times I shook with fear. And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears.
I know I don't deserve a place Among the people here. They never wanted me around Except to calm their fear.
If you've a place for me here, Lord, It needn't be so grand. I never expected or had too much, But if you don't.....I'll understand.
There was silence all around the throne Where the saints had often trod. As the policeman waited quietly, For the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, policeman, You've borne your burdens well. Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets, You've done your time in hell."
--Author Unknown--