October Prayer for Dispatchers

Lord, They're in our hands tonight, Yours and mine‐

Those guys who keep the peace and fight the crime.

They're men, with wives and families, and feelings, too.

They give themselves for our protection, those men in blue.

I know my part in this is crucial, too.

I must inform those men in blue,

When trouble strikes, and where.

And send them quickly, no time to spare.

I cannot see the scene from where I sit.

My eyes and ears scan the console, brightly lit.

I must wait in blind suspense to hear each "ten-four,"

As they let me know they have survived one time more.

I know a part of them that a few others ever see-

Their eyes reflecting scenes depicting how cruel life can really be.

A battered child, a senseless wreck, or a murderer set free,

A brother-in-arms shot down, never more be.

I'll make the coffee, and keep it fresh and strong.

They'll stop by for a cup or two, but not for long-

Another call, a plea, or just a happenstance.

Duty will beckon, "Come, time to take another chance."

I'll answer the phone and questions too.

And dig out the states and records they ask me to.

I'll type the reports and of course, look with them some.

I'll even put off that reporter who dials in on "nine-one-one"

Let me, Lord, speak, calm and clear,

To those out there while I'm in here.

I'm their link, and they are mine

In this partnership of fighting crime.

It seems to me that we're all a team

They, You, and me, I mean.

I'll do my best, and they will too.

But, still, Lord, we need You to see us through. AMEN