The Crimson Shield
April Sears
Twice a corpse and once a thread,
Leaks human sin of thin bloodshed.
Death breathes life into the wound.
A medal, one can only assume.
Personifying further pulse,
Scarlet bleeds my next impulse.
I seize my sword; in earth I ground,
Vision swaying, fleeting sound.
My flesh, it quakes under my weight,
To Angels and my God I pray.
My course is slighted, doubting me,
With power pointed steadily.
Skin pouring rivers of thick wine,
I pace forward; with faith I bind.
Bruised can solely compete with Time,
Alas my mark succeeded thine.
Courage burning my last breath,
Succumbed both rays and lurking death,
My cherished weapon beats in breast,
For heart prevails the blushed sunset.