Lion Tamer

You kicked over the chair I set out for you

So I stood it upright again 

Four legs. Sturdy. 

If you would just sit, I think

I would sit with you and we could talk.

A visit. 

So normal

And terrible

Given who you are. Were. 

To me. 

You kick it down again, and I see it is broken now.

Three legs sturdy but the fourth gives way. 

That was careless.  

You stand, imperious and self-important

I knew this was a long shot.

You would never sit with me.

A student to my learning. 

I know what this is, 

A challenge for whatever dominance exists here. 

I would have met you as an equal, remember that. 

Now I pick up the chair, slowly 

I hold it out to you but not as an offering. 

Not this time. 

You always took the lion’s share. 

Now I will train you like one. 

Your claws will not reach me again.