The Just and the Unjust

TO be in the woods
when the thunderstorms come
is to experience the gradual silencing of the forest
as the deer and squirrels and birds
seek shelter
even while the thunder pounds;

TO be in the woods
when the thunderstorms come
is to hear the coming of the rain
before it lands
imperceptible at first
hitting leaves far above and away;

TO be in the woods
when the thunderstorms come
is to feel the false and god-like assurance that
even with the rain falling all around you
- you remain untouched!

And
if you are wise
you know that it is only a false assurance