Thunder

The rumbling of thunder From some bowlers in the sky Makes me shudder, gape and wonder Why we tell our kids that lie. Does it reassure them, thinking All that noise is just a game? Or are they aware we’re winking, Making such a silly claim? As a child I did envision Rip Van Winkle getting strikes; And I pictured the collision – Pins and ball – each bowler likes. But I knew that my perception Didn’t make a lot of sense And that grown-ups used deception At their little ones’ expense. Still, perhaps their best intention Isn’t really so off-base If it soothes some apprehension And puts giggles in its place. So when thunder starts resounding I will think just like a tyke And find comfort that the pounding Is another bowler’s strike!