The Leopard and the Chameleon

Once there was this leopard
grew strong with vibrant spots
very self aware

Mesmerized all wandering eyes
for which he was proud
suave in every stride

Voice was deep and low
eyes that stuck lightning
on the clearest day

The envy of the rainforest
yet envied the chameleon

See,
the chameleon was powerful
no, not in body or sight

His power comes from inside
appearing as timid
but also self aware

Self aware in his limitations
not afraid to see his faults
beauty in camouflage

Those prideful
 fall from pedestals
dignity destroyed

The leopard attack the lion
thinking he could take the crown
instead his spots shrunk, faded
Now wearing a crown of dirt

The chameleon saw the lion
and knew to be shrewd
no time for Russian roulette  

Melting into the greenery
the lion moved on with ease
dropping his precious crown

sighs of relief and joy
chameleon proved shrewd
now claiming what the leopard lost