Fireflies

One time back in late October
a cool fall evening came
no work had I to go over
and no chores to claim
          
I sat quietly in the dark
and stared into the night
when from the woods I saw a spark
a sudden flash of light
          
In a moment it was gone
and the stillness then returned
but this peace was not for long
for from the first another light was spurned
         
Soon all the woods were filled
with numerous blinking light’s
like a bag of stars was spilled
and danced upon the night
           
That evening when the fireflies came
was such a lovely sight
I captured them and gave them names
in joy and pure delight

Then slowly as the night wore on
the twinkling number slowed
I snuck inside from across the lawn
and watched my captives glow.

Many dreams danced through my head
after sleep to me had crept upon
I slept well because I knew, I'd set them free at dawn

(11/96)