A GREAT MAN PASSES ON

(Remembering Amoz Gibson)

                        Are we ever prepared?

                        Ready

                        to feel that life has passed

                        completed; its pre-ordained measure

                        measured out in full?

                        To rise at dawn and remember

                        Crazy Horse on his steed before battle

                        shouting out--

                                    "It is a good day to die!"

                        To rise at dawn and say those words

                        free of guilt or remorse?

                        Amoz Gibson was a warrior.

                        Enkindler of hearts.

                        His life sparked fires

                        in the sandstone remoteness--

                                    Piñon, Lukachukai, Chinle, Pine Springs;

                                    Many others--

                        His death consecrates

                        that noble, white marble

                        proudly formed on Mount Carmel.

                        To live the battle cry, Ya Bahá-u'l Abhá!

                        A good Day to die

                                                in the path of Bahá.

                                                -- C.S. Cholas, 8 July 1982