I’ve been a grumpy lion
lashing out in pain –
punctured shell smarting
by an objectionable barb.
I am a prideful feline,
with a formidable roar –
an offensive defence
intended to intimidate.
Even so, you ventured near
and in a single act of good,
disarmed my furious outrage,
calmed this bellowing beast.
Like a mouse, you quietly –
with understated grace –
gestured with such kindness,
I withdrew all complaint.
You restored my faith in beauty,
revived a nostalgic sense of bliss,
offered possibilities: sweet and
unexpected; soothed my soul
An not, I have noted, without
self-sacrifice on your part –
I am not so egocentric
to have missed the cross you bear.
Your gentle demeanour prevailing
over my abhorrent rant,
is a worth a million thank you’s
to a wounded-heart cat, like me.
(Image my own. This poem first appeared here February, 2015)
One Woman's Quest 