I saw a magpie today
standing there solitary
fear of childhood nursery
a rhyme drummed into me

‘One for Sorrow’

Checking no-one was near
Compelled by fear
I whisper
“Good morning, Mr. Magpie
How’s the wife and family”

I’m feeling absolutely silly
and then my heart leaped with joy
along came Mrs. Magpie

Saved by superstition
rhymes truth came to fruition

‘One for sorrow, two for joy’
I happily wave them both goodbye