I wake each morning and look with a stare
In the mirror and wonder who is it that's there.
For years I've pondered while I get into uniform and fix my tie.
To whom am I looking while the world passes by?
As I button my shirt with that shiny piece of tin.
I ponder, is it worth it, day out, day in.
In the dark morning hours as I pass through those iron gates with a sigh.
I remember who I see in the mirror and why.
It is, a father, a husband, a son, a man working hard
It is me, a public servant, a Prison Guard
I continue on, not for the pay
And certainly not for the accolades I won't get today.
I am the guardian of the gates of Hell
It is who I am, it is what I do
And I do it for my community - for all of you.
By Captain D. George
Maine State Prison
