I flaunt my colour true and bold
and use its strength to spur me on.
The warmth, though silent, emanates 
as courage I can draw upon.

Emblazoned bright in mindful eye,
it carries me, bears me aloft
and though it can seem harsh, obtuse,
its velvet tones are calm and soft.

Its challenge means I cannot flail
and falter on my chosen path
for I would there, betray myself,
incur my own relentless wrath

And so my epithet becomes 
a staff with which to stake my claim
when all demands much more of me
I'll fight to keep my fiery name.

Once battle's won and softened light
determines that the mood is shed,
my inner glow restores it's calm
and turns a shade of ruby red.