Respect

If the seasons come and go,
Treat us to their rain, their snow,
Their rainbow leaves and gradual changes,
Lavish harvests through the ages,
We will keep to our shared promise,
Repay the favour and be honest.

Though if the seasons stay the same,
Play with us this age-old game,
Let us win and never learn
The consequence to not return,
We will pile our plates with greed,
Reap and sow beyond our need.

But if the seasons were to falter,
We would stand upon the altar,
Condemn and damn the dying land,
For leaving us with this demand;
We won’t threaten or conspire,
If given back what we desire.

Then if the seasons were to stop,
Deprive us of our vital crop,
We will break our ancient deal,
Neglect our duties and reveal
To each and every man and beast;
We never did deserve that feast.

David Thackwell