In the Woods

For the master of the trees

independence came with ease.

On the trails of his abode,

up and down the hills he rode.
Take a leaf and break a limb,
make them show respect to him.

When the summer went to hide,

no more shade did they provide.
No more leaves to take for fun;
limbs were breaking on their own.

Now what's this? the master said

when the winter came to call.

Freezing rain and chapping wind

doth surround me one and all.

Must the flowers be reminded

to withdraw to winter sleep?

Must I tell the forest creatures

where to go for winter's keep?

While the season chills the charges

I'll protect them, this I swear,

'til the gentle winds of springtime

come again to warm the air.