believers
the maple tree tops are church after mass
starlings like kids squealing, their bodies frantic with movement
sparrow mothers planning lunch menus, and lazy hours after dishes
feather & fur believers basking in the bliss of communal connection
everything sings
squirrels scamper & scoot
bluejays pull the soft wind on their pointy tails
robins are robust in belly and bellow
leaves quake with the busyness of devotion
the sky is scripture
VANESSA SHIELDS 