February is a Trickster

February is a trickster
It plays us for fools
in the guise of early spring,
feeding into human longing
and superstitions 
involving a rodent's ability
to see its shadow.
I've seen the crocus sneaking up
on my friend's lawn,
another enticement to believe
spring is just around the corner.
I'm not buying it. 
I've seen what February can do;
this old dog isn't falling for tricks,
old or new.
I'll enjoy these few days 
of sunshine and mild temperatures,
but I don't believe winter is almost over.
I just don't trust February.
For that matter, 
March looks pretty shady too.

~Elise Skidmore ©2024