Japanese Beetles

We think them evil
because they destroy rose petals,
five or six clumped up together
in a single bloom.

Like man, they are among God’s creatures,
so are given room,
but are not nearly as greedy as humans. 
They eat just as much as they need.

The problem is a human problem. 

They breed too quickly,
copulating in the very same bloom
where they have eaten
and, clearly, sometimes before.

They hook up in pairs doggy fashion.
I crush them between thumb and finger
while wearing gloves.

It is true, I admit, I can’t love them
as I can’t mankind
for the rape of this world’s fragile beauty.

Roses are my concern.
I’m satisfied man himself will never learn.