Return With Honor

Two years have passed as if a dream
The end would never come it seemed.
The days turned into weeks then years
I never thought I'd shed these tears.

A part of me will always stay
With those I helped to find their way.
Some received me as a friend
And others, well...they would not bend.

My clothes are worn, my soles are sore
I wish I could stay one year more.
Two years is just not long enough
To polish stones, that once were rough.

The things I've learned will always cling
Close to my heart, much joy to bring.
This mission does not have to end
If I upon the Lord depend.

Some say it is a sacrifice
I beg to differ, maybe thrice.
The things I've learned and come to know
Have strengthened me and helped me grow.

Bittersweet the end has been
These brothers, sisters now are kin
Part of me they have become
Together we're a greater sum.

I left it all in the mission field
Except for faith's perfect shield.
I Return with honor to my name
My head held high no trace of shame