72. Dinosaurs

One of the things that scares me most, my loves, is dinosaurs. They're terrifying. They are heartless monsters and we are lucky they're gone and we don't have to struggle against them for survival.  We're spending this weekend with Megan's brother and his family, and I have been reminded that dinosaurs haven't left us completely.

Their feet recall their forebears, aeons past,

all scales and flexing talons, smooth and pale,

propelling them towards prey, grip sure and fast;

not many insects live to tell the tale.

In recent eras, feathers have increased

and covered their lithe bodies all entire.

Despite their cuddly look, they've never ceased

their hunt for food with bright, predacious fire.

For upper limbs, they're now equipped with wings,

eschewing former love of rending claws.

But in their eyes, the killer's voice still sings;

their unforgiving gaze still gives me pause.

You laugh, but these guys scare from me my dickens;

Just watch, and you'll believe the threat of chickens.