Turned out of the nest
to make a fortune
on lizards, snakes
and bugs, he explores
the mossy troughs
and warm dirt tanks
for a dependable drink.
Cold clean drops
roll down his throat
as he tips his beak
to the mermaid bathing
motionless—much
to contemplate
and forget
at the ‘sip and dip’
for young eyes I envy
like kittens and puppies
yet to learn the truth.
drycrikjournal 