Only playing dead

Dear robin, miraculously alive,

after being roughed up by a Golden Retriever

who almost caused your demise

you fought valiantly, flapping your wings and pecking at the dog

but she took no notice, just moved in closer to grasp you in her mouth

I screamed and shouted and tried to lure her away with treats

but she wouldn’t listen, until you, wiser than me

rolled onto your back, playing dead, fooling even me

until now that the dog is inside the house

you sit upright, flexing your wings

then fly away home

please, feathered wonder, be wiser next time

Janet Bellinger