I’m listening.

I promise I am.

To the buzzing bees

that surround me

and ask why I have no nectar.



I did not say I was contributing.



Why not try those new yellow flowers

over there?

A sure success



Oh, and by the way –

welcome back.



I’m listening to the warbler

You look a little ragged, sir –

long day yesterday? I can relate.

And my advice is:

take a break.



That stick that fell next to me?

Yes, I heard it.

But I also felt the air move

And a fear of collision

So close.



The woodpecker drumming is loud, pronounced –

As I look for the tree that bears the wound.



Your coat of red, dear Cardinal

Is the focus of my world,

and the water a cascade of white as well as sound.



So, clearly, I am listening

But I am distracted.