Inquisitive and tentative

A hedgehog’s spiny presence
belies the truth it’s shy – and
inquisitive though tentative with
bright watchful eye

Intent on bird seed windfall
beneath our open aviary
it curls up tight into a ball
when we step out to see

And it is a wonder of
which we never tire when tiny
wild creatures come
close enough to inspire

with gratitude and awe –
for life and breath in many
forms quite near us and
beyond us countless more

And the shy curiosity and the
tentativeness too, and the
inquisitive and watchful eye
suggest hedgehogs share some

characteristics
with me and you

SRM