I was raised by birds

 

I was raised by birds

First by robins
of rosy belly
who listen to earth
whose gain
is worm’s loss.

I played among chickadees
each given a crown
of black or brown
sometimes chattering
upside down.

I heard wood thrush sing
lullabies of burbling brook
teaching metaphor
before I knew.

I was guarded by blue jay
shrieking spleen
who never spoke of love
who brought seeds of sunflower
who broke a wing tip
attacking the hungry snake.

I was nudged by crow
who laughed, who told jokes
who pushed my butt as I grew
until at last
I flew.

……

First published in Freshwater
photo by Mali Ancor