This was written in 1972 during the Vietnam War and unfortunately it is still applicable for today. How many times do we hear of or see on television about another soldier dying or maimed in war and becoming part of the statistics? So you might ask, “How does this apply in any way to addiction or recovery? I guess the same process of death will eventually come for many addicts too. Just substitute a few words here and there. Dead soldiers and dead addicts both end up being covered by that darkened shroud or body bag, or casket, if you prefer. Death does not only have to be physical. Addiction can be spiritually, mentally, relationally, psychologically or financially mortal. The point, I guess, to all of this is that while the soldier cannot escape death when death is calling, the addict can. The addict can escape by turning their life over to the will of the God of their understanding and becoming part of a recovery program. Any addict can find the help they need when they are ready to give up their addiction. You don’t have to be another statistic! One final thing I need to say is “God bless all our soldiers and veterans for their service, and God help the addicts that need your blessing today!”
“Another in a Darkened Shroud”
The frightened soldier stands so proud,
as the bombs around him form a cloud.
The lonely soldier, he hates to fight,
then a bullet rips, and a flash of light,
the soldier cries, he’s lost his sight.
The lonely soldier, with face of fear,
his mind recalls the ones so dear,
he knows that death is near.
The lonely soldier, as he begins to die,
can hear more bombs crash through the sky,
and hears another comrade sigh.
The frightened soldier that stood once so proud,
is now just another in a darkened shroud.
