How

to clasp joy

in this world

of aching

loss?

Of bees and birds

of breath

of birds and bees

of life

Exchange

your salt shaker for

wildflower seeds

Cast aside

your blind and grudging

stones

Create

a sacred space

for the fierce impossibility of

feather

flesh and

bone

Feed two birds

with clear eyes and

hopeful heart,

with one open,

widespread

palm.

— C.Birde, 11/19