The Outlaws Prayer by Johnny Paycheck

You know, I worked the Big Packet show in Fort Worth, Saturday night,
We had all day Sunday to rest and relax, before I caught another flight.
So I decided to walk down town an' get myself a little fresh air.
Before long, I found myself in front of a big church on the corner of the square.

Boy, I could hear that singin' way out in the street, sure was a beautiful sound.
So I just walked up the steps an' opened the door an' started to go inside an' sit down.
But before I could, a young man walked over to me an said: "Excuse me, Sir,
"But I can't let you in with that big black hat, those jeans, that beard an' long hair.

So I just left, went back outside, sat down on that kerbing, an I thought to myself:
That's the house of the Lord. That guy's got the hell of a nerve.
Tellin' me I can't worship anywhere I please.
So right there, in front of that Church, I just knelt down on my knees.

I said: "Lord, I know I don't look like much, but I didn't think you'd mind.
"I just wanted to be with your people, Lord: it's been a long time.
"A while ago, a saw a wino over there in the alley, all bent over in tears,
"An' I thought how one stained glass window, from this Church, would feed his family for years."

"Then there's those fine cars parked outside: too many for me to count.
"Made me think how people walked for days to hear your sermon on the mount.
"Then there's those fine ladies in the choir, Lord, singin' like they really love it.
"Hell, last night, they were dancin' on the front row of my show: drinkin' beer, screamin: 'Sing Shove It.'

"You know, even John the Baptist wouldn't be welcome in this place,
"With his coat made of Camel hair an' sandals on his feet an' a long beard on his face.
"You know, Lord, when you come back to get your children, an' take 'em beyond the clouds,
"To live forever in Heaven with you: well, I'd sure hate to be in this crowd.

"You know, Lord, I'm not perfect; some even call me no count.
"But I'll tell you: I believe a man is judged by what's in his heart, not what's in his bank account.
"So if this is what religion is: a big car, a suit an' a tie,
"Then I might as well forget it Lord, 'cause I can't qualify.

"Oh, by the way, Lord, right before they kicked me out, didn't I see a picture of you?
"With sandals an' a beard. Believe you had long hair too."
"Well, this is Paycheck, signing off.
"I'll be seein' you Lord, I hope."

Happy Memorial Day; God Bless the Troops!

More than a million American service members have died in the wars and conflicts this nation fought since the first colonial soldiers took up arms in 1775 to fight for independence. Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman and Marine who died fighting in these conflicts was someone's son or daughter, father or mother or friend. Each was a loss to the nation - and each a hero.

This year, as Americans are engaged around the world in the War on Terrorism, we are especially mindful that our brothers and sisters face enemies every day and yet stand resolved to carry out their mission and keep America safe. Many will return home with pride for serving their country honorably. Others will be honored for fighting and falling in the line of duty. All these men and women have earned our gratitude and respect. They too are heroes and warriors.

By observing Memorial Day, we strengthen a tradition dating back more than 130 years, to the aftermath of the American Civil War and the decoration of the graves of fallen soldiers. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed May 5, 1868, by General John Logan, the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. After World War I, the observance of Memorial Day was broadened to honor those who died in all our nation's wars - and so it has continued.

This Memorial Day, we remember, we celebrate, and we thank those who have gone before us. Let them be our teachers, and we will honor their courage and sacrifice by learning from them.

God Bless Every Service Member Past and Present .... John, U.S.A.F, Ret.