Birdie

A birdie got trapped in my house the other day-
In a cage (but not an actual cage).
She landed on a couch, comfortably sweet.
I asked the birdie what she had to say.
“Poo tee tweet?” she asked, quoting Vonnegut.

She flew in circles and into windows.
The percussive thuds of her feathered body
Made me cringe and squirm for the frightened bird.
I thought: “I have to direct where she goes-
“I will be a shepherd.” I ran around,

Trying to fly her towards an open door.
I waved my arms and made yelping noises,
Feeling silly chasing this little ball of feathers.
Little plumes and droppings all on my floor
Because the fear was hers. She flew away,

Through the open door and into the blue.
I was successful but kind of down.
It took two hours, the entire affair
And after I realized there was more I could do
To show I care. I understand now,

How my parents must have felt- eighteen years
In a cage (but not an actual cage),
Waving their arms about, directing me
Towards a way out and soothing fears
Yet unknown to me. But at the end,

Instead of exhausted relief,
You both worry and care.
I take that for granted at times,
So allow me the time now to say:
“Thanks mom and dad.”