I’d spend the livid day
swimming in the cool, green stream.
And dip below the surface
as the children ran and scream.

If I was a turtle
I’d bask in the light of the glowing sun
sitting on a fallen log
falling asleep till I heard the croak
of the old bullfrog.

If I was a turtle
I’d pull my head
and limber limbs inside
if someone jerky scared me.
I’d not leave my place to hide.

If I was a turtle
I’d not ask for a lot.
Inside my shiny, painted dome
I’d fiddle the day
not roaming from my home,
relaxed and fed, and gay.