©Kathleen Moors

All of these years later,
there are times when
my grandfather
comes to mind.
He would have waded in.
He would have ended this gentle bird’s life,
quickly.

Instead, I watched, crying,
from some distance away.

I honour this one life.
I won’t forget it.

All spring and summer,
I have stood alone in the tall grass,
watching birds.
They have given me such pleasure
in their vulnerability and in their struggle.

I bow my head.
I am silent.

For those who say, “There are human beings dying all around you!”

That enormous truth does not take away the sadness in this moment.

a
single
bird,
dying

©Kathleen Moors