soft thump

fallen sparrow
across path

startle out of reverie
to-do lists, plans
forgotten

delicate feathers
shades of brown and grey
blood matted
no wound visible
beneath ruffled plumule tuft

thoughts of death
tiny limp body
slightest beat of heart
Hope

carry home
cleanse
quench thirst
wait for healing to begin

quiet chirping
rising to crescendo
robust chords
quavering trill

rehearsing?
perhaps restating – reliving
trauma
that brought it to this place

towel nest
water
bread crumbs
all in order

Day break

minute dependant gone

one diminutive feather
caught on cotton loop
remains

left to ponder

mystery of unexpected guest

little sparrow
across path