i did live bravely
before in that place
i did not shrink back
from pain
or shame
in that trying space
i did not die there
either

the call that came
a deep response
to an echoing shout close by
bravery answered
and unlocked the door
of a well known prison
where familiar walls
were home

i set out bravely
again once more
a journey both away
and towards
and knew trouble
and met it bravely
trouble within
and without

here i rest
drinking water from my own
cool deep well of courage
examining that land ahead
the dark groves
the steep ravines
the high mountains
the walls of rock

bravery is the most violent
expression of patience
the ultimate act of faith
risking ending for fuller living
the most honest
expression of loving respect
thrusting another upward
an undeniable declaration of their esteem

i will walk this path ahead
i will live my life
with unprecedented bravery
in the gamble of hope
in the anarchy of love