To Die a Martyr

I’m not afraid to die a martyr

But am afraid to die a fool.

It’s not with death I fear to barter,

But folly I refuse to duel.

To die a martyrs death is gladness

What higher honor could be mine?

To die for some adventure madness.

What good is death by man’s design?

A fool would put his life in danger

For nothing but a little thrill,

But martyrs are considered stranger

For trusting in the Father’s will.

A life that runs the risk of making

The martyr’s crown it’s prized attire

Is not as dangerous as taking

Adventure’s honors for your hire.

Society respects the daring,

But I would call the man fool

Who risks his life without declaring

The gospel as his guiding rule.

I’m not afraid to die a martyr,

But am afraid to die a fool.

It’s not with death I fear to barter,

But folly I refuse to duel.

Ezra Brainard, December 2011