Harry

A Nature Poem; based on a true event

You precious, funny little

nearly fearless fellow

I met you on my bathroom sink

You delighted my heart with your personality

I named you Harry, and welcomed you to stay

How lovely your soft brindle tone

the colors of black, copper and grey

Your tiny body, boldly beautiful

Your fuzzy inquisitive brow

unflinchingly studying me,

I returned your intuitive gaze

Your curious nature coupled with

your stealthy, responsive movements

led to a humorous event…

Your movement caught my attention

on this particular morning

as you jumped from the counter

onto my Christmas cactus,

the modified waxy leaves stretching

from the sink to the large

unframed mirror on the wall

You traveled speedily from

one limb to another

I drew in closer

watching in amusement

You were a bit naive I must say

As your movements brought you near

the mirror’s reflective surface

Arriving at the tip of one leaf pressed against the mirror

Suddenly jumping back three inches in startled surprise,

a long way for one so small.

Wary of your reflection, you retreated 

I laughed at your expense little one

Until tears filled my eyes

You priceless little eight legged creature

I still giggle sometimes to myself

Upon remembrance of that day

You engendered my affection

Harry, you amusing, fuzzy faced,

darling Jumping Spider!