Groundhog Day - a tribute to Punxsutawney Phil |
The Weather King The darkness fades to lighter shades arousing me from sleep. I close my eyes but, no surprise, there’s no peace in my keep. I stretch and yawn; I greet the dawn and prepare for the day. I check the date and say “Oh, great … I have to earn my pay!” I brush my hair with greatest care for I must look my best. I wipe some dirt off of my shirt which really’s just my chest. I’d be remiss, in times like this, if I didn’t try. Of course I know I live below. My place is quite a sty. I am prepared, no longer scared, as I begin the climb. My worries stem, I won’t fail them for that would be a crime. With pep and vim, I grab the rim as the sky pales to ash. I sneak a peek – and then yell “Eeek!” as the world starts to flash. The camera crews from local news and across the nation are waiting there but I don’t care as I take up my station. I squint my eyes in the sunrise and seek my silhouette but camera lights make the scene bright and I begin to fret. How can I tell, ‘less they dispel and stop their interfering, what everyone seeks in the coming weeks as winter moves toward spring? I hear a “Shush!” and in the hush, they finally dim the light. I look around and on the ground I see it will be all right. I stare and stare – no shadow there foretells an early spring. With my job done, I turn and run. I am the weather king! Notes “Only the shadow knows …” Yep - that's what Phil said. I wonder if he's heard of "global warming?" Thank you for taking time to read my words. I would appreciate it if you took a moment and left a comment. Your reaction, impressions, criticisms, - yes, even praise - are all equally welcome. |