Ode to a Panda

The beauty of birth,

you come out so pink.

Eyes not even open,

who knows what you think.

Now you are older,

that is for sure.

A coat of black and white,

so soft is your fur.

We have a ceremony,

for choosing your name.

The country of China,

shall you bring no shame.

Today is the day,

you will be released.

We all pray for you,

a life of peace.

Going into the forest,

as we say our goodbyes.

We let you go,

and we cut our ties.