A CONVERSATION WITH A CHIPMUNK

(A hoot owl in the hickory tree aroused me from my sleep;
I’ve been outside since half-past-three, since birds began to peep.
A little chipmunk comes in view, to see what he can find;
He seems unsure what he should do, and so I speak my mind.).

“Good morning, frisky, woodland sprite!
Have you had breakfast yet?
The sun will soon come into sight,
The grass with dew is wet.

“You scrutenize, with watchful eye,
To make sure I’m not foe.
Your tail is pointed to the sky,
As you dart to and fro;

“You search for tidbits,here and there---
A kernel, crumb, or two,
Or sunflower seed---you do not care.
‘Most anything will do.

“Look!  Near are nutmeats in the shell,
A pile of melon seeds.
Come!  Charm me with your magic spell,
“For both of us have needs.

“Delight me with your scampering leap,
And with your squeaks of glee,
As we discover, in a heap,
Life’s gifts for you and me.”

(The owl has left the hickory tree and gone on home to bed,
But he, chipmunks, and I agree:  by the same Hand we’re fed.)

--Helen J. Ewoldsen   7-10-98, Rev. 3-15-05