When a Lightning Bug Lands on Your Arm

Catching inspiration before it flies away

When a lightning bug lands on your arm

you better catch it while you can

It doesn't bring around its light that often

so when it lands and speaks
in its curious patois

find a utensil
to scribble the mysteries
of its verse

before it flies
away

carrying its words
upon its wings.

A poem by Pemba Umoja