Sneaking A Peek

By John I. Blair

I’m sneaking a peek at you there
On the railing that borders my deck,
Twisting your neck, looking for lunch,

Black-hooked beak, golden eyes,
Fierce as a raptor can get
Who weighs only two pounds at most.

By summer I think you’ll become
A full-sized hawk, Cooper’s,
Competent capturing crows;

But right now even a rat
Could give you a fight;
So you’re waiting for sparrows.

I’m going to be neutral in this,
OK with setting the bait
But hoping you’ll find some place else

To practice your trade, some place
Where I won’t know the names
Of the dinner guests.

©2013 John I. Blair