I have witnessed you Wash your paws at the altar Of your moony reflection Halved by a dogwood. People say grace over you In the backwoods - garnished With sweet potatoes & red peppers. I have seen you fold paws across Ringed eyes to shield out Flashlights, as stout men Climbed oaks to shake you down For the dogs. Raised on hind legs, With fruity entrails perfuming The cold night air, you fought Till men kicked the dogs off To save you for their blessings.