Answer:
Dies half its life. Lives the rest. Dances without music. Breathes without breath.
What surrounds the world, yet dwells within a thimble?
A beacon from home to guide your way. It can be a lifesaver on a stormy day. What is it?
Hold these between your knees if you want to set a Cuban beat.
I saw a strange creature. Long, hard, and straight, thrusting into a round, dark opening. Preparing to discharge its load of lives. Puffing and squealing noises accompanied it, then a final screech as it slowed and stopped.
In birth I spring forth, in life I unfold. In death I wilt and die, but rebirth restores all.