The Package

The Package
©2005 Basil Sands

They moved swiftly across the field
Take the package across to the enemy's zone
That was their order

Fanning out in a line
Space between each man to protect against the opposing force
They started their trot into enemy territory

Eyes darting side to side in expectation of sudden violence
The package was carried deftly into the jaws of the enemy
The enemy that glared with grim, hostility
Eagerly awaiting the carnage that was about to ensue

"Nothing in life was easy, if you want it you must suffer for it"
That's how the leaders pumped them up for this job
"Suffer for the greater needs of the team, of your family!"

The clash came with unbridled power,
Flesh pounded into flesh with bone shattering force
Grunts of pain, wind rushing out of lungs as men hit the ground

But the package moved on,
Seemingly against all the forces the enemy had, it moved

Determination was seared on the faces of these warriors
Nothing could stop them short of the goal

They must fulfill the mission
Failure was not an option

Men were down all over the field
The package had passed to the last small group entrusted with its protection

They moved with ferocity engaging the enemy with gritted teeth and piercing eyes
Crushing their way through until the goal was in site

The destination for which they had laid everything on the line.

The enemy came on with fury and took down the man who held the package
With all his remaining strength he pushed the package towards his final team member

Scooping it up, cradling it in his arms like a child, he rushed into the enemy's final perimeter
Diving into the last domain held by those who would crush him
He forced the package across the line
This would the last attempt, it was the final try!

The score was 25-24
The match was over and everyone headed to the side lines,
Helping members of each team up from the ground

Rugby…a pleasant way to spend a Friday night with friends.