Once More Into the Breach

A deeply respectful bow to mentors, long deceased, who inspired my greatest battles in life with their graceful, rousing war cries.

Once more into the breach,
Splintered shield, remaining armor plate now dull and damaged,
Sword nicked, pommel forever carrying the blood of battles past.

I step again into the gauntlet,
Fortified by the echoes of the brigades gone before,
Would that my own charge be so noble as the six hundred.

I am older, now, and slower,
But I am wiser, so much wiser and determined,
Though metal be tarnished and muscle diminished,
I am fortified with precious knowledge of myself.

Oh, foe of old, tremble mightily,
My spirit is emboldened and my resolve undaunted,
Fearlessly, I stride with measured steps to the appointed front.

I am not alone in this charge, not this time,
The ranks and rows that join me, do so in heart, blood and steel,
But I take this first step first and enter the breach before all others.

This has ever been my battle,
I surge forward victorious before striking a single blow,
For this day, I return to battle with that most sacred knowledge,
That my victory was secured the day I decided to fight.

This is my St. Crispin's Day.