Today I awoke
I’m glad I woke up again!
I’m on a roll, 69 years so far
There were fluttering waxwings
to greet me
Yesterday there were robins
and crows the day before
I like waking to the birds above my head.

I rolled up my pack
and walked along the floor
of heather and grass
picking black berries for my breakfast
Where should I go today?
Summer is in full bloom, but
autumn comes quickly and
I must travel south with the birds
if I am to survive the winter.

South. I go south.
Tomorrow when I wake
maybe I’ll glimpse the black hills
As long as when I sleep
I sleep free.