DON’T POKE THE BEAR

Black bears are everywheres

Especially in the Smokies

Best left alone

On their own

Avoid poking!

If by chance

You come along a big sleepy bear

     hiding hibernating

Let it be

As tempting as it might be

Let sleeping bears lie

Don’t poke the bear

Let it be

Let it be!

And don’t startle the bear

Bears are everywhere

When hiking through thicket

Down trail

Make some noise

As you trek

To let the bear know

You’re there

Don’t startle

And don’t poke the bear

If a bear’s in camp

Of course make some noise

Don’t surprise the fella

Bang and clatter

And if the bear happens

Upon some untidy food

     pack or ruck sack

Remember

IT IS NOW HIS!

Don’t poke the bear.

It’s called bear logic!

If by chance a

bear pursues you

Get as big as you can

Stand up tall

     all arms tall

Open your coat

Make your self bigger

Somehow/Anyhow

He’ll lest likely poke you

Now momma bear is an exception here

Especially with her cubs

If they are near

Stay clear

Don’t get yourself or your dog

between

Her and her brood

You’ll feel her rath

If in their path

Don’t you dare, poke the bear!

Trust me!

Black bears “false charge”

Tis one scary event

Will charge full bore right at you

Stand your ground

Shat your pants

Don’t turn away

He’ll pull up abrupt

     ten feet from your foot

Stop short then casually

Meandering off

Up the Appalachian Trail

Not in a rush

Turning around once more

As if to remind you

“That’s my blueberry bush!”

Perhaps his ancient way

Of a real life communiqué

So whatever you do

Whatever you pursue

hike, camp, pick blueberries in your yard

Remember this tale

Stay happy and . . . well

Don’t poke the bear.

So with this little advice

Trekking can be nice

Remember to share

Remember the bear was here first

Coexist

And don’t

Don’t poke the bear!

tom tenbrunsel

Poet Laureate of Barely Bear Advice*

Author’s Note: Derived from actual experience.

*Black Bear Advice