The best way to fight a lion
is to not.
Instead,
approach it sideways,
from the very edges,
looking vague, and non-threatening.
When it realises you are there—
and it will—
it will growl, and bear
its teeth, which feels
a lot like a lump in your throat
or adrenalin in your stomach.
But you would do the same
if you were afraid.
So keep circling it,
a nice distance away,
smiling and nodding, and looking reassuring.
Soothe the poor lion,
who is disturbed by your gaze,
and slowly, slowly,
it will let you closer.
The only way to pat a lion
is carefully.
Tangle your fingers through its mane,
whisper to it that everything will be alright.
and when it bares its teeth
and flashes its claws,
stand ready, alert (but never alarmed;
most people do not die by lion),
jump out of the way if you need to—
but make sure you always return.
Your lion needs you.
Hold your lion.
Cradle its massive head in your lap,
admire the way it looks,
so strong, so powerful.
It only desires to protect you.
Croon to it.
Promise it the world.
Remind it that although you do not have
teeth, or claws,
you have other weapons, stronger:
Logic. Planning. Forethought.
These are the kind of weapons
that protect you from harm
before it even finds you.
(Lions are not logic. Lions do not plan.
Never mistake their murmurings
for logic, or forethought, or plans.)
No one needs a lion.
But once you have one,
it is very hard
to let it go.
So the best you can do is hold it.
Feed it gently,
treat it kindly,
reassure it
(as you would yourself, if you were scared)
and it will love you well.
But do always remember:
It’s not a tame lion.