Taking Care of My Own

I begin my day before the sun even rises, Heading out into the dark to gather a feast. It’s my normal routine, so there are no surprises. It’s quiet and lonely, but I fear no beast. As I wander through the field, on the way to the lake, The sun comes up, giving me warmth and light. I have two paths to choose from; which do I take? I’ll go on to the water; there’s nothing to the right. As I continue, I’m getting hungry and need to eat, But the water is close, just over the next hill. So, I’ll wait until then, enjoying the sun’s heat, And keep moving forward, thinking about my kill. As I come to a clearing, I see two hunters by a tree, Sitting on the ground with their guns, trying to hide. They’ve been up there for hours just waiting for me. I bet they’re just poachers, making money on the side. I move slowly and quietly so they do not hear, Hoping they don’t spot me across the way. I’ve said before that I’m not afraid, that I have no fear, But men like these, I have to avoid every day. When I get to the lake, there are all kinds of others; Zebras and hogs, gazelles and elephants, even deer. The young ones know to stay close to their mothers, When there are so many predators both far and near. I know this because I’m one of them, you see. I come here a lot to get my family some meat. I stalk around in the bushes so on one can see me, Moving close to the water on my large, quiet feet. When I’ve chosen my prey and I’m ready to attack, I leap from my hiding place, and take him by surprise. As he tries to run away, he slips, falling on his back. Sinking my teeth into his neck, I’ve won my prize. I’ve waited all day for this chance to come around. Now I can take my time heading back with no bother. Dragging the carcass of the deer along the ground, I feel righteous providing for the cubs and their father.