Final Handshake

A few sermons said
he couldn't have recorded

draped in military colors
and saluted
suddenly recalled was a soldier
wanted to get up
but was nailed

taken to the crematorium
slid into an incinerator
nearest kith and kin
his spouse
silently wept

God let's shake hands
so far I had kept him
now you take over
as you are of heaven
the only single owner

I'm awaiting your tenancy
until then will pray feverishly

Lord we all have come to thank
Yes we know
you only can see