Future King!

Of all the tiger cubs that year This tiger cub was wise, Beyond all doubt, beyond all fear, With eyes still on the prize... So every challenge that he faced Was met without delay, Despite the fact he wasn't praised, He'd be a king one day... He grew the stronger week by week, He chased the others round, Enough to prove himself unique With every new skill found... And wily was his subtle mind, Matched by a patient heart, Enjoying lessons he could find That kept him strong and smart... While others dozed, he kept alert, Till dreaming forced him down, Yet in his dreams he fought, though hurt, As if to earn his crown... He stood alone, as kings must do, He strove to beat the rest, While kings like him are oh so few, He proved he was the best! Denis Martindale, copyright, March 2015. Poem based on a magnificent wildlife painting, by artist Stephen Gayford nb Google-search gayfordgallery and 'Stephen Gayford poetry'.