then after the winter,

i went for a walk in spring

and noticed signs of life

all around.

 

sparrows and seagulls and

even a flock of black swans

at the far end of the beach.

 

water sparkled and people

passed. trees bowed their

greetings and the breeze felt

like the start

of something new.

 

and my heart sighed deep

and long with the reminder

that i am, too,

connected.

 

and the cobwebs that had

gathered in winter loosened

and melted away in sun.

 

Heather Pound 2023