Let the first breath be taken,
A gift the still-born knows not.
Many troubles will surely follow it.
In the end would it all have been worth it,
or not?
Let it be drawn with an understanding,
A second or third breath was never promised.
Those fortunate to claim it,
They must make the most of it
To honor those whom never received it.
Let the first breath be taken,
Enjoyed by hungry lungs,
Inhaled then exhaled.
Sweet relief will come.
Let it be said,
After this first breath was taken,
For whom it was given,
Others will be glad it came to be;
Instead of grieved that it ever was given
Among the living.
Let it be,
That even after a first breath has been taken,
Here on earth beneath,
A second first breath
Will be taken in heaven someday,
An even greater feat.
written by Minister Kenneth Williams, executed by the state of Arkansas on April 27, 2017. Pronounced dead at 11:05pm