For works with similar titles, see Bravery.
BRAVERY.
CROWNS for the brave! Not brave as they who dare
Wars, danger, death, but braver, nobler far.
These outward tests of seeming valor are
Little compared to what a life may bear.
Comfort and self-protection, these oft scare
The laggard soul to action, but the star
That rules the brave need not be star of war.
There is a bravery of soul, a strength to wear
Unselfishly a burden; to endure
Scandal and evil, curses from a world
That should but bless; to keep one's faith unfurled
Against a sneer; to keep the spirit pure
Against temptation. This the bravery
That taxes strength of heart and soul to be.
Wars, danger, death, but braver, nobler far.
These outward tests of seeming valor are
Little compared to what a life may bear.
Comfort and self-protection, these oft scare
The laggard soul to action, but the star
That rules the brave need not be star of war.
There is a bravery of soul, a strength to wear
Unselfishly a burden; to endure
Scandal and evil, curses from a world
That should but bless; to keep one's faith unfurled
Against a sneer; to keep the spirit pure
Against temptation. This the bravery
That taxes strength of heart and soul to be.