The Old Bear

The Old Bear


Heavily falls the old bear.
Unable to stand he sits propped.
Attendants minister to his needs.
His cave deserted, uncared for.

His welcome bellow is subdued,
Speech slowed, slurred.
Words sometimes lost --
Conversation difficult.

Eyes haunted, vacant,
Stare inwardly, absently.
Little recognition of
People he once knew well.

Gone the fearsome growl,
The brute, animal strength,
The striking of massive paws,
That would cower an adversary.

Independence gone he waits
While others make decisions.
Where will he be moved to?
What to do with an old bear?

© Copyright 2009 Dennis Cardiff (UN: dcardiff at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
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