a dim sum of the day before

Four young rats sample a dim sum

of the day before in the trashcan

beside the path. They see no reason

to scatter when I pass. Another

I think older, maybe wiser

peers from the cover

of low vines a few steps further on.

When I pass again,

two cats hunting turn

at miao, but keep their distance.

Rain leaves something for everyone,

but next morning I see just one

rat fat as a pampered cat

dining alfresco between showers.

                                  --Steven Schroeder

from word press's cup of fine tea