on a day of prayer
an entire day can be defined
by the sighting of one
great grey owl, yellow eyes
searching the snow as the sun begins
promising it will set.
at the top of one thin and closeby tree that
does not sway despite the 24 inch
priest at its apex. in silhouette
that face is flat, otherworldly. looks to have
a great flow of locks down its back,
and facing forward it sees all
easily now, flowing, until
with the utmost focus, it will spot movement
in the white. an entire day
spent waiting—can be turned into a view from
the heavens. this owl, yellow eyes, barely
swaying, its swivelling head, so close
I am certain I hear it declare
you are not the prey.
March 2023