John Walked Home Today

by pb Hill

John stepped out of the dust

From which man was made today.
He raised his knee,
Set down his foot,
And took a step forward.

I don't believe he ran.

No frolicking or bounding around.
Just the comfort of a stable footstep.
Only the joy of standing independent, again.

John walked Home today.

He didn't transfer to a wheelchair.
He didn't maneuver a joystick.
He simply progressed forward in the leisure of relief.
He walked Home today.

John didn't walk Home alone.

I'm sure his Companion greeted him gleefully.
I've no doubt the sincerest of hugs welcomed him.
I'm reassured that his last heavy breath here
Was replaced by the sweet aromas of release.
The shackles broke; the bondage fell; the prisoner freed.
John walked Home today.

John walked to safety there.

No worries from the wicked world's woes.
No distractions. No difficulties. No dangers.
Only Peace, Praise, and Power,
When John walked Home, today.
He finally left behind the cluttered ruins
Of a catastrophic devastation.
And all who miss him are yet glad
Of his deserved reward.

The damaged forages of flesh

Which bound his sweet soul,
His soaring spirit, and his tender heart
Are left behind.
We mourn for ourselves.
Our loss is his gain.

John walked Home today.

The battle was long
And well fought.
Still his reward will satisfy the sacrifice.

I can see him, looking at his moving feet,

Carrying him forward to rest.
And, remembering his smile,
my heart is eased to know:
John walked Home, today.