Conversation with the Reaper

The run was done, the rig was clean
The paperwork now the load
We fought it hard, but lost again
Almost always with a code

I closed the door and crossed the bay
The rigs all in a line
I had a need to be alone
A time for me and mine

The sky was black, the air was cold
Enough to see your breath
I felt him there, a presence dark
The Reaper, Prince of Death

Though I could not see him
I knew that he was near
How dare he enter this, our place
We serve and save life here

A voice cold and stony
Cleaved the silence like a knife
Sit down beside me warrior
We need to talk of life

In a voice strained but steady
I said unto my foe
You and I, we battle
You have our leave to go

Yes medic, you always fight me
But in the end, I win
There are times that you remember
You almost called me, friend

Yes, he was right as I recalled
Some screamed or fought for breath
I worked them hard, but lost the most
And gave them up to Death

Yes, the Reaper and I were travelers
On a long and sordid trail
He played his part and so did I
As we watched the life force fail

The speaker cracked, the doors came up
The bays were filled with light
Across the ramp I ran toward strobes
Of flashing red and white

As I ran, he called to me
A whisper clear and quiet
Remember medic, I always win
You may lose again tonight

I answered back as we rolled out
Alert and belted tight
Come on along if you think you must
But be prepared to fight