The first thing you notice are birds,
louder than normal, unmistakable and clear.
They no longer compete with
noisy cars or the boisterous laughter of school children.
They sing live—no streaming necessary—from a distance
safe and secure.
The wind has its own soundtrack,
adjusting its levels,
imposing a required calm upon the listeners,
sheltered in silent reflection
assured wondering.
The measure of time is a march
perpetual and enduring,
largely undetected, ignored.
The days break down,
the light shifting in and out,
the scene changes heralded
by a chorus of birds
riding the wind.
PETER HRASTOVEC lives and writes in Windsor, Ontario and has published two books of poetry, In Lieu of Flowers and Sidelines, both by Black Moss Press. On occasion, he practices law.