Gryphons

By Elizabeth Shield

Sometimes we are lions in the park
Regally relaxing between the benches
Lounging on the fountains and
Chasing pigeons over cobblestones
What fun to be a lion, careless, powerful,
And muscled like a well-carved statue

Sometimes we are doves on the windowsill
Pecking prettily amongst the boxed petunias
Soaring over corbelled rooftops and
Nesting gently under the eves
What fun to be a dove, delicate, beautiful,
And symbolic as a strong declaration of peace

But could we be the gryphon?
The sleek, elegant, fearsome, and graceful
The epitome of strength and beauty
Could we be exquisite gryphons,
And leave our faults behind?

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