Pausing Beneath the Oak Tree

Pausing Beneath the Oak Tree

A quiet walk through our back yard
On such a hot and sticky day
Catches small animals on guard
Seeing a human come their way.

Little squirrels race to a tree
Homebound until the coast is clear.
Jaws filled with acorns a plenty
Provide for their families dear.

A gentle breeze stirs colored leaves
As the little birds take to flight.
Early morning dew clings and cleaves
And sparkles in the warm sunlight.

Our neighbor's children play next door,
Their laughter bubbling up with glee.
A game of chase is played by boys
With their dog barking happily.

I can pause beneath an oak tree
And watch the sun's rays turn to shade.
Fully in tune with nature's plea,
These reminders will never fade.

              --  Pat Ryan  --