Many despise such a fate

But the grave is the gate.

"To live is Christ

to die is gain".

The truth suppressed

To none has brought rest

"We wrestle", The Word says.

Not "We fest".

Though the pain be great

The guilt is not worth the pleasure.

Though we are bound to righteousness as slaves,

Still there is no greater treasure

Than having salvation,

Welcomed into the presence of

The King of All Creation.

A battle won.

A war left to win.

My spilled blood, a hand of mine putting a bullet to my flesh, ensuring my victory.

And everyday I must

Be willing to scar, to wound, to deny the flesh of life, that I might live.

From its ashes, I rise.

If not, I live to die.