Walking

Walking today,
I heard the sound
Of chirping birds.
Their poignant cries
Remind me of a child’s biting words.

Crying just the same
Longing food for their beaks,
Their destitute beckoning
Heeded by mothers of the weak.

Soon they will feast
And starvation will subside;
The cycle will begin again
Until the baby says goodbye.

Walking brought me sadness
At their frets on the wind,
But I know mother will care
And daddy will defend.

©2004 Joe Jenkins