 Birthday Omen by Ute Carson "Audience," Vol. 4. No. 2, Fall 2009, World Audience Publishers The wonder of a snail's belly Flattened against the rain-spattered window, Stretching, then contracting forward along the wet surface, Confident, feelers like flexible reeds, Eyes glistening pinpricks, Its shell-house like a blown-up parachute in easy reach, Only its soft underside exposed, at risk. How does a snail balance its perception Between the desire for exploration and the need for protection? I watch from inside, It's my birthday! I too am vulnerable Tapping old feelings, As I turn into a child again, Shivering with excitement, a sense of wonder, Impatiently anticipating visitors and gifts. And I long with a quivering heart To become the center of the world again As I was so many years ago.
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