Future Comings

After a photo by Elizabeth Jackson

Cheryl Heineman

Just near, just outside this window
small bird-hearted newborns sing
each with a church in its throat.

Hearing music, although you turn
away to your hurried day,
you recognize these hatchlings

are akin to the stars. Know that
as you see them fledge and soar
there is no need to cry out

another spring will alight
bringing again its chorus
just near this window, just outside.