Lioness

Every girl has the heart

of a wild creature, but-

around age 14,

we lock it into a cage inspired

by unreasonable standards,

boring expectations. And we forget her.

For some, what goes into hibernation

is a wolf; for others, a tiger,

an eagle, a jaguar;

a dolphin, a fox, a bear.

And the landscape

around her changes- grass grows

into a prairie, all paths overgrown.

 

It takes remembering

that we are women, and someone

with the instincts of a trailblazer

to even find the cage, uncover

its door; and then again the courage

of a tamer of wild horses to free

what has been captured inside.

 

Mine is a lioness- lithe and sensual,

burning gold and amber like a bonfire

in the heart of blackest darkness.

 

My friend, did you fear her claws

that day- or were you hoping

to be devoured by her? You broke

the lock, and reached inside; and she

arched her back and showed her belly

and tail when you stroked the ribs

of her soul with hands that did not

even tremble.

 

Perhaps we were just caught on the stage

of a play about human loneliness-

but biology wrote the script and

chemistry directed the acting. There was

nothing to be spoken, but everything to

be said, just in purrs and growls. Bites.

A hungry thing relearning how to use

its own legs to walk.

 

And it was with wonder

I realized what you

were doing- it takes a strong man to

desire to domesticate his mate’s wild

nature; but an even more courageous one

to let her run free with it.

To trust- she will

come back to you, but she will not make

you her prey.

 

Look close to where your boots travel

in dreams, my love. I think you

will find a tawny form curled in front

of your bedroll, claws retracted. Head

on your pillow. Or your chest.

 

Author's Note

written for a friend. translated from the original in Spanish, which can be found here:

http://www.writerscafe.org/writing/zorra_encantada/1948889/

Reviews

[The Rock And Roll Cowbo..]

So many expectations are put on women and what society believes they should be... nothing more beautiful then to see a woman take her own path and be all that she desire... you are definitely a lioness, a gorgeous lioness at that... I admire your determination,one of the many reasons to love your spirit.

[Raquelita]

Thank you, Cowboy, for taking the time to visit, and leave such a beautiful review. In my words, I try to recognize and empower others to the full extent my humble ability allows. That you see importance in that, makes this woman's heart sing in joy. Much love to you. -R Marie

[Emily B]

mine was a hawk

she wants to fly

[Raquelita]

I think just a gentle push in the right direction, and she will definitely remember how, don't you??

[Emily B]

i remember that