Heart of a Lion

My rendition of Drake Cooper and his dog Dodger.

His play he would be forsaking

facing the darkness we all fear

Soul aching tiny heart breaking

oh how he wished that I were near

 

The matriarch of his small clan

was ill and finally dying

It was his plan to act the man

while inside his heart was crying

 

I had finished my latest book

which I dedicated to Drake

The Ties That Bind weren’t so kind

as I heard his little heart break

 

I sent him the book to peruse

in the hopes that it would cheer him

To ease the blues and heal his bruise

though the diagnosis was grim

 

He took her my book with the note

opened it to the beginning

Where he read the quote,  I had wrote

his face all aglow and grinning

 

In the end what could any say

to this child who loves his small clan

Love whispered stay,  don't run away

to this boy forced to be a man

 

Tate

Author's Note

Little Drakes grandmother passed away a week later and he was extremely upset. If I could do anything for him I would. He has taken it as well as any man would. But times like these we don't want him to have to be a man. We want him to live out his childhood as a boy. I can tell you the tears of a child can break the heart of any man!
This was the dedication I wrote in the front of my newest book
The Ties That Bind
I dedicate this book to Drake Cooper
A young boy of unique talent and intellect. In him I see the great handy work of the Almighty. His was the heart that once reached out to mine. When I was most alone. I will always be grateful. He bought me my first poetry album. Then inspired me to fill it with my writing. Possessed with the heart of a lion and soul of a poet. Meeting him was one of the greatest gifts I ever received. He will always be loved by me.
Tate

Reviews

[Richard Williams]

A fine and touching poem where you connected this little boy's life with your own, allowing both hearts to sing.

[SageMusic]

Tate - in the past several days this topic, ties that bind, the feelings that connect people in the heart of hearts, has been heavily covered in conversations within our family. Once in a great while we are blessed to find someone who fits in our heart, or in the heart of a clan, perfectly. Hold on to that for it is a rare gift.

Peace and Blessings.
Sage

[Eiken]

A beautiful poem. I find it wonderful how we can reach out and touch others as this boy did you. I think we all have someone who has done this, made such a unique impact. Lovely to read this, so inspiring:))

[Jim Parson]

As always, a moving, emotional piece, well written and a great way to launch your new book. A lovely tribute.

[Crowley]

Many times forced to grow up to quickly, but sure is nice to have someone like you around to help get through it. Great wrting Tate...hits that spots dead center in the middle of the heart.

[Sunflower/Sara Kendrick]

Enjoyed reading this story and the poem..I am glad that you did that for the child..You surely lifted him up when he needed it the most...I am glad that you have completed your book..I would bless you with much success with your sales..May great financial gain with the sales of the book...May you bless the lives of others with the riches of your gift of poetry that will encourage and inspire their lives..May you also use the financial increase to benefit many..Sunflower

[Sunni Davis]

What a beautiful poem to an amazing young man. Its amazing and wonderful how people can touch our souls, inspire us and stay in our hearts forever. Once again, Tate, your words have brought tears to my eyes. Thank you.

[?]

Well you made me cry, this was beautiful, so moving.
We can all learn from children, the innocent, the forgiving, care free, forever loving,etc.
Im sure he was touched by you too. Dont understand why things, terrible things have to happen to the innocent, loving children.
Loved this very emotional, moving piece.
Love the song too

[David W Moore III]

Very nice, Tate. Quite a tribute to someone who has helped shape your life, It is truly amazing what a touch in your life by one person can do. We see the news of all the selfish people who are only after their own advancement or are truly evil. Sometimes it seems like a surprize to find the unselfish ones that seem to be put on this earth just to touch others.

[The Analog Kid]

Very nice. I understand this even more from what you have told me. A very special boy that helps you stay in touch with yourself.