Majestic Encounter
by Scott Shaffer

My kayak slips quietly towards the lakeshore,
propelled by the last thrust of my paddle–

it now rests on my knees; I’m barely breathing …
in awe.

Perched on a fallen-timber throne–
backdrop of blooming foliage–his majesty waits:

fierce, but stately, like an emperor posing for his portrait;
pale-yellow, keen, imperious eyes size me up.

His crown is pure white, with matching, snowy cowl;
gold beak shines like a sharp scimitar in the sun;

deep-brown, textured, regal robe fits handsomely;
bright yellow feet sport talons for a vicelike grip.

I’m amazed that he’s allowing my kayak to creep
Closer … closer … closer to his royal person.

Surely, he’ll soon bend, then launch heavenward
into glorious flight–breaking the spell.

Who will “blink” first–the eagle or the human?!
Slowly, I lift my cell phone, snap the regent’s photo.

Now it lives as my phone’s wallpaper; I view it daily,
marvel that the king permitted me into his presence.



 

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