By Grace

A poem from a soldier's point of view, one who has to leave the love of his life for war

As I embark on this journey
I hold you close to me
I've never seen myself worthy
To have your heart, given so freely
And stare so long into your eyes
Or watch you sleep, your chest fall and rise

As I hug you
And whisper comforting lies
I never thought this dream would come true
Us, having such close ties
You allowing me to touch you
Having you touch me too

As I say my last goodbyes
And pulling from your embrace
I thought it would be wise
To steal one more look at you face

I never thought it would hurt this much
To see someone else's pain
To be without your touch
Just the smell of you remains
To think the years still lie ahead
This war, may see me die
Forward I must go, though, feeling dread
There but for the grace of God go I