Lou Rogers

Once upon a time in my young Army life

I was visiting the seashore at Tokyo Bay

Late that evening, tired of a friend's persistent yak

I decided to go for a swim

Swim out a half mile or so, and then right back

As I swam out from shore in the tepid dark water

Clouds were gathering swiftly overhead

The sky suddenly became overcast

Deep black darkness surrounded me

And, being out beyond the breakers

I lost my bearings fast

This way-that way

How long can I last?

Scared and swimming frantically

I soon grew weary

As I gasped for breath

The taste of salty, sea water was on my tongue

I felt I was soon to drown

All alone and very young

"Dear Lord, give me strength, I need You"

This prayer was there in my mind

As if it had been there, waiting

A long, long time

As I struggled to stay afloat

To make an effort for a few more strokes

Waves again washed over my head

I had feelings of wishing I were already dead

Suddenly the clouds parted

Moonlight burst through

I couldn't believe it

"Dear Lord, was that You?"

Soon as I touched sand

I knew that God

Had heard my plea

And, in His earthly plan

He still wanted me.

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