After the Rain

After the Rain
     by Mark Schuette

Branches empty.
Skies dark.
Water descends.

A chipmunk stirs.
Clouds part.
Light breaks.

Does this creature understand the kingdom of man?

War. Poverty.
Greed. Famine.
Power. Hierarchy.
Racism. Hate.

Nobody understands the animal kingdom.

Harmony.
Sustainability.
Equilibrium.
Toleration.

After the rain
a choice is made.
Remain in the dark
or illuminate.

Understand?