Fledging

I love to watch the birds in may
When the eggs hatch and everyday
Is a challenge thrown the chicks way
It's decision time... leave or stay?

Life's just beginning, it's for the best
When they step up and fly the nest
They may fall, pray they're blessed
So they survive this, natures test

Little chicks, looking longingly
Towards the next-door plant or tree
Waiting to realise all they can be
By opening their wings, falling free

To the very edge they go
They have to learn, have to know
Life is not a pretty show
They may die in one fell blow

Is the moment now? Is it right
For them to take their first flight?
The dawning of the day, at first light
Or stealthily in the depths of night

It's time to fly, that's what they think
Now it's time to swim or sink
Will they be over in a blink
Or will they make it over the brink?

The mother bird must let them part
She watches with a saddened heart
As each of her children must depart
She's given them the best start

They are off to better things
If only they can spread their wings
And survive the terrors the world brings
Each little bird can start to sing

They line up along the edge
One step more goes off the ledge
Throw yourself into it, make the pledge
Little bird it's time to fledge.

I.Sparrow