Brave crocus and tulips stretch their
green-gloved fingertips above the dirt,
seek sunlight. When they meet frosty
winds and slapping snow-sleet, the
patient buds bow their heads, huddle
in the dark, wait for a warmer day.
Meanwhile, a lone robin hops
back-and-forth, back-and-forth, searches
for a thawed patch of grass. In spring, the
early bird doesn't always get the worm.

From Celebrating the Heart-land (Jericho Productions, 2009).
Used with the author's permission.