Poem of Mine entitled "The King and the Token"

Here is a poem I had written a few years ago based on a story that my then yoga teacher had told me. I've always said that I don't really write my poems.. they sort of just write themselves. Every now and then I'll feel a poem inside me itching to get out, and it's not uncommon for me to be woken up in the middle of the night and scribble one on a piece of paper. They usually come at phases in my life when I'm very pensive and going through stuff, and then might be followed by long periods where I can't even make up limericks. Unfortunately I'm going through the latter phase now which is both good and bad- bad for creativity, great for peace of mind!
Either way, back to my poem. This story obviously had a major impact on me for it to tumble its way out of me in rhyme. It's called "The King and the Token" and I hope you like it!

My teacher told me of a story

Folklore it could be, or a fable

Of a mighty King, in all his glory

Who posed a question to his table

of Wise Sages, Masters, Ministers, Men

"Is there a tool of significant meaning

Of use to me at all times when

The Sea is calm or shit's hitting the ceiling?

For all the times I'm weak or strong

Find me that tool, search far and wide

For a great power, that will belong

to me, And act as my guide."

Potions were brought, scriptures heard

But in the end the tool was chosen

A piece of paper with enlightened words

to Keep close to him. The perfect token.

One day his Kingdom was attacked

The King fled, fearful for his life

The piece of paper he did extract

To help ease his terror, in the strife.

He read the words, just one time

Receiving the strength to surpass

the war, Saved by just one line-

"This too, my friend, shall pass."

Hiding in a crevice in the ground

The King stay sheltered from the violence

The battle was fought, he was not found,

He emerged victorious amidst the silence.

The years flew by, the Kingdom shone

But the King, he knew, that would not last

At the pinnacle of success, he had but one

reminder, That that too would pass. 

My teacher continued, "And this is how

I convey my most important teaching

The present's all we've got, Stay in the Now

But remember, my friend, that too is fleeting."

-
(This poem is my property only and may not be copied, reproduced or distributed in any way without my prior approval. Thanks!)