Another Poem for the Road

Rodent of Hope

When Winter swallows up the days
And divvies up the land
Between its minions, Cold and Dark,
Who rule with iron hand,
The weary people search for hope
Seeking a bit of cheer
When a humble mammal morphs
Into All-Knowing Seer.
At his shadow will he scurry
Back into his hole,
Leaving Mankind suffering
Whilst Winter takes its toll?
Or will the Groundhog look toward God
While choirs of angels sing;
Not see his shadow in the grey
And herald early Spring?
A prayer of thanks on pilgrim lips
To Punxsutawney Phil,
Who gives the tired traveler hope
Through bitter winter chill.

February 2, 2003