The fresh smell of welcomed rain — petrichor — fills the air.

The slight dampness has enlivened the birds.

They are well-fed

And sing with

Healthy vigor.

I pass a young couple;

They smile, I nod my head.

Moss on brittle branches.

I slow my pace,

Favor my left knee

And sit, warming a lonely bench that faces the forest.

A gust of wind reveals a shopping cart among the trees.

A man searches for answers in a garbage can.

I carefully drop some

Coins and they make a

Satisfactory rattle on the path.

I walk home slowly;

The day is somewhat

Brighter.