Before the cock crows 3 times

trash barrel rattles

something alive inside

tap the barrel

nothing climbs out

walk to the pond

sip coffee dry

still the barrel rattles

something alive inside

listen as it scratches up sides

desperate to flee

halfway home

an inner voice says

kindness to all

means all life is sacred

grab trash tongs from porch

walk back to the park

the barrel still rattles

something alive inside

roll it over

kick prison walls

possum stares out

staggers slowly away

believe it will live

to scavenge, again

replace trash

back in barrel

walk towards home

both of you saved

9-7-26