Lesson

A Lesson

I remember well the day
We spied a pigeon's nest
And decided to investigate.

From rooftop to rooftop we flew
Until, with joy, we found the place
Nearly within reach.

We tied a spoon to a stick
And leaning over, ensnared
A miracle of nature - a pigeon's egg.

Delicate even to boys
Who knew only by instinct
They'd committed a sin.

We returned the egg
And waited weeks for the hatchling -
Which never emerged.

The lesson was long in coming,
But finally it's here.
Discover your place in nature -
And remain there.