The Reckoning

The lion rests now on the quiet plain
His mane a snowy flowing white
Revelation grey around his temples
Receding fangs have lost a bit of bite
Who stood so tall, who roared so mightily
Provider of the daily family feast
This fierce yet somehow gentle warrior
Strong and powerful king of beasts

The veteran of many wars
Who fought the battles, side by side
Now sinks into the Serengeti
Once proud protector of his pride
The cubs are grown, out on their own
Each one a king or lioness
The time is theirs to be protectors
Over elders of diminishing prowess

The eyes are wizened, watchful still
Accepts his role, beast among kings
He lives no fear, just realization
It is a time of reckoning

The time has come to yield the crown
To step down from the regal throne
The royal robe is handed down
A younger king into his own has grown
The provisions of the younger keep him
Accustomed to the finer things
His role no longer king of beasts
But loved, respected, beast among kings

The eyes are wizened, watchful still
Accepts his role, beast among kings
He lives no fear, just realization
It's just the reckoning

 © John Kennan 11-16-19