Hope and heartache —

that small fluctuating flock

gathered in slender maple’s limbs,

suspended adrift,

strung at the ends of gilt threads.

Once square sheets of paper,

smooth white bellies inscribed

in ink and symbol,

folded, creased, refolded,

each careful line pressed smooth.

Cathartic act —

bright birds hatched,

conjured from one dimension,

each a care transfigured

and set to flutter within that humble tree

in ephemeral offering

to Time and weather’s whim

and dissolution —

And yet, year round,

the tree leans,

abloom in brilliant color.

–C.Birde