God's Little Builders

Whenever termites build their nests
they hardly stop to take a rest.
They send their scouts out far and near,
to search for perfect sites somewhere
to sculpt from turf their odd-shaped mounds;
cathedrals rising from the ground.

Although the air be hot outside,
their nests are nice and cool inside.
Tunnels running to and fro
combining chambers high and low.
(It's wonderful how these small creatures
build their homes with such grand features!)

Inside the nests the work goes on,
though they've no light from moon nor sun.
Blind workers fungal gardens tend
whilst others help their homes to mend;
to forage all day long for food
and caring for their nests' young broods.

Beware, intruders, take good care,
for there are soldiers everywhere.
Always ready; strong and armed
to protect their own from harm.
Over their subjects royals rule,
from noble chambers safe and cool.

Termites might be small and boring,
but with eagles they are soaring -
for little creatures such as they
do what God asks of them each day.
Should not then we, creation's crown,
be men and women of renown?

This poem was a finalist in the September 2008 poetry contest