On Getting There

The neighborly old-timers,

Always ready with a balm

For bruised egos or butts,

Said I should stay ever calm --

Never be caught in cahoots

With crooks or saints or rhymers.

 

The crook they said will forsake,

The saint rests all with the soul,

The poet rates words over gold --

And each must have the last word.

You need a horse, falcon, and dog

To speed your quest in the world.

 

The horse carries you with care

Even at harsh rein or spur.

Falcon screams only at danger

As he scans past your despair.

A dog will die to save you

From mishap or sordid lair.

 

So, bear up young man and know:

The world will test your mettle.

Yet if you are a worthy master,

God's creatures will get you there.

Watch them and learn how to serve.

No one gives spit or twiddle

If scoundrel meets disaster.

Author's Note

Life gets a little easier if you pay attention and learn from nature.

Reviews

[VelvetPotato]

Wow, what a unique piece! I really enjoyed all of the interesting words you used (sordid, mettle) and the whole concept of the poem is so original.

I always look to my german shepherd and think about how noble and loyal he is, and how I should be more like him. I look at my kitties and see how fierce they are, and how they never feel sorry for themselves even when they are in pain. Animals are truly amazing and resilient. They get the job done with humility and grace. There are no ulterior motives to their love or behavior. They're unconditional.

Great stuff!

[bigfootprint]

Thanks again, VelvetPotato. Easy to see you are an animal lover. One look into your shepherd's eyes when he smiles at you tells you that you are his biggest fan. We had a golden lab that we swore could read our minds. We tested it many times, using visual images, not words, and focusing on his mind, we could get him to come from another room when we called. The children's mother would tell them to pick up scattered clothing and they would get the dog to do it. He would put it in the laundry basket. Sad to feel his loss, looking back.

[John the Baptist]

Unfortunately, the closest to falcons I usually see are turkey buzzards.

[bigfootprint]

Thanks John. That may be because you keep yourself grounded -- or close to it. lol

[bigfootprint]

Hey falcons could be symbolic.