Squirrels in Winter

Squirrels in Winter


Have you ever worried
about squirrels in winter?
I see them climb over snowdrifts
with their bare paws --
they have no winter boots.

I see them stop
to tuck their tiny front paws
into their armpits
for warmth --
they have no mitts.

When it rains
I see them huddle
under trees,
they still get soaked --
they have no raincoats.

They have no pants,
no dresses, no hats,
no warm winter coats,
no shelter or fires
to warm their bodies.

Even the homeless men
sleeping on sidewalks
have sleeping bags
to keep them warm.
Squirrels have nothing.

Still they remain cheery,
hopping about
gathering nuts,
Who knew
it was such a hard life
for squirrels in winter?