Migrations by Nikki Giovanni

When the sun returns to the arctic circle from its winter rest

The grasses sprout seducing the winged and the hoofed

Polar bears and their cubs must flee Before the ice breaks up

Although others begin a northern journey

The Snow Goose flies from the Gulf of Mexico to mate and birth her young

Two million Mongolian Gazelles move over the tundra where each gives birth at the same time defying the will of predators who would consume the gazelles' future

Though only, of course, to provide nourishment for their own young predators

Let's not judge too harshly

Salmon swim upstream jumping falls and grizzly bears

Grasshoppers ignoring the advice Of ants make music to celebrate Winter's end

Monarch butterflies leaving the safety Of Zihuatanejo forge north Beginning the longest winged journey of Spring

With only the hope of warmth and the promise of grasses They unflinchingly face: Hunger Thirst Predators Winds Rains Uncertainties

As would I For you

— Bicycles by Nikki Giovanni (Page 8)