to those who rhapsodize about peace
found in nature, and harmony in birdsong
and other lovely things.
I invite you to walk with my dog.
she does not stare at squirrels with warm friendship,
nor at groundhogs or foxes;
they in turn do not invite her to play
or even remain in close proximity when we walk.
they know; she knows; I know that they are prey,
and she would kill any, had she the chance.
birds sing, true, but also squawk,
and not for our enjoyment, remember.
they want mates; they sound warnings over territory;
they signal their health (but this returns to mating).
walking in fields involves dirt, muck, and mud;
with each step, you crush some insect or plant.
find your peace, enjoy your harmony, but do not forget
that these are things that you impose,
imaginary as rainbows in the sky.
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