Dimpling the surface
of the silky smooth stream
with waterproof feet,
children love to watch you
"walk on the water."
Your long, spindly legs
stretch out in anglesway, way beyond
your narrow cylindrical body
held neatly above the surface.
You thrust yourself forward
making minor ripples
with your long middle legs
acting like oars,
yet you glide smooth and ripple-free.
Your hind legs
become rudders
when you need to steer,
sneaking silently
toward your target.
Your short front legs
are ready to snatch
unsuspecting prey that may
drift into the territory
you patrol with authority.
You are the Strider,
the efficient rider
on the H2O,
and the children say:
"Way to Go!"
© 2015 Richard Havenga
For an earlier, creative non-fiction version, see: Water Striders - June 19, 2012
Photo Locations:
Bear Creek - Townsend Park - Kent County, Michigan
Page Creek - Fallasburg Park - Kent County, Michigan
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