Where once we stood defiant, proud
Now humble lie our souls
Before some mighty, unseen king
Whose eye we dare not meet.

That precious gift that is called life
Is judged for all today.
Hark! the herald! Listen well
As he recounts our fate.

The stars burn brightly still tonight
They see not man's despair.
Alone, he turns to face himself
The cruelest judge of all.

Praise to the man who then stands true
Bloodied, but unbowed.
For then will Orion bend his bow
And Sirius dim his light.

Simon Bird, 5/10/96