The Promise

a Civil War era poem by: Calvin G. Sims, Sr.

This poem depicts a former slave who has joined the 1st Colored Soldiers Regiment, circa 1862, as he says goodbye to his wife and son, who are still bound by slavery. The wife has asked her husband to promise her that he will return safely. Inspired by the painting below, this is my interpretation of the Black soldier's reponse.

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The Promise
a Civil War era poem by: Calvin G. Sims, Sr.

Though my love for you is such,
            that I would grant your e’re desire;
I cannot grant what you now ask
            Much to my hearts desire.

You ask me for a promise
            A promise I would gladly give;
yet, a promise I dare not make
            nor guarantee I’ll live

But be it God’s grace
            that I return someday,
then promise you this, I will
            before I ride away.

That I will forever and always
            faithfully be your man,
no matter what I promise
            I will always take this stand.

Until my last breath is drawn,
            till I am laid to rest,
all living souls shall witness
            that I always did my best.

To leave a name of substance;
            respected and held on high,
a true symbol of character
            from now till the day I die.

I promise that I’ll always
            make you smile with pride,
though this may be the last time
            I live standing by your side.

And e’re the word should reach you
            that I have passed away,
you’ll know I kept with honor
            what I promise here today.

That our son will have a roadmap
            drawn by the life I lived.
my example is the greatest
            gift I have to give.

He’ll grow strong in his knowing
            he comes from valued stock,
whose chains no longer bind us;
            no master, no whip, no lock.

And when that great day of freedom
            shall ring from every hill,
he will stand tall, as I did
            and justice will bid his will.

But should my soul depart me
            by the bullet or by the knife,
you’ll no doubt know I loved you
            with my last full measure of life.

I will come to you thereafter.
            I will ride upon the wind.
I will live in the smiles of children,
            and you broken heart will mend.

And you will know with pride,
            as time will dry your tears,
I live beyond the sunrise
            that gently still your fears.

This is all I have to give you
            as duty calls me away:
so hide deep in you precious heart
            what I promise here, today.

Date last updated: Saturday, July 26, 2008 4:29 PM

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