Awakening

Awakening

“Is it time yet?” The worms asked.

“Not quite,” the turtle said.

“You have to feel the cold ground soften

before you burrow through. You have

to see some roots growing

and moisture seeping down.”

“It’s getting late,” the snails sniffed.

“Watch the crocuses,” the turtle said.

“They peek out first

with their sturdy blades. Sometimes

they get buried with snow

but they spring  back up,

their gossamer petals unfold

in violet and saffron pleats.

Then the earth awakens and you

can crawl and wiggle again.”

The worms and snails sighed in relief.