It was an accident
but my dad kept crossing
his legs, looking to the window.

None of us thought
the chick would make it to
morning. It would sooner

drown in the oncoming
thunderstorm, be picked off
by another set of jaws.

I am resolved
to teach my children,
“Nature is cruel.”

Next morning, the chick
is gone but birds are singing
and there's hope.

He could be anywhere.