February’s winds brought heavy grey skies
Thick with a Southern surprise
I stood at the window, took in the sight
Of a tree, sturdy and aged, that’s brought us many a morning delight
A home to sparrows, mockers, Juncos and warblers that
Enchant with song, dazzle our eye, and often confound the cat
She joined me with coffee, warm and bright
And her touch, familiar, inviting
This burden of winter, will our tree survive?
Perhaps we should help, just a little, with a shake
To loosen winter’s weight
And our eyes turned to him…oh great
He groaned, yet obeyed, and soon our tree was alive
With its own dance of thanks
As branches returned to their place
And the smile to his face
That tree’s seen a lot, still sturdy and strong
We agree it has room to grow
Though it requires a nudge or occasional brace
She smiled and whispered
Offered a kiss then considered
The treasure of February’s embrace
© John Malik, 2014
