One Against

To find purpose
in the perfection
of the sword
and willingness
to die
a blade in the hand of a warrior
a kensai
a storm of enemies
behind a wall
the rush
the push
of many
one stands against
the slaughter
one makes a difference
even should they fall
for the act of defiance
in the teeth
of fear
is power

DEATH POEM

In the end of life
We celebrate one’s success
Funeral parades
And the cremated remains
Speak nothing of the sorrow

(Japanese poetry form Tanka used)