Opportunity

Birds cast their songs
into the silence of dawn
to open a new day,
a new opportunity
to display their gifts.

To merely be present
is an opportunity
for acceptance;
for gratitude
for gifts
given.


As crystals melt
from the sharp edges
of translucent ice
enclosing this winter creek,

a Black-capped chickadee
lightens your morning 
with cheerful loyalty.

As a silver fog
veils the wet woods,
and dissipates
with the rising sun,

an Eastern Meadowlark,
yellow breast to the sun,
throws his joyful voice your way.

As the dew,
gathered overnight 
on silken threads,
evaporates
with the morning breeze,

a Song Sparrow
welcomes you
to his solo performance.

To merely be present
is another opportunity
for acceptance;
for gratitude
for gifts
received.

Do you have one hour
of this one  morning
out of your one life?

© 2015 Richard Havenga 

Photo Locations:

1. Bear Creek - Townsend Park - Kent County, Michigan

2. Chief Hazy Cloud Park - Ada, Michigan

3. Home Woods - Cannonsburg, Michigan

4. Grattan Township, Kent County, Michigan

5. Ada Township, Kent County, Michigan

6. Home Woods - Cannonsburg, Michigan