Poems

Philosophy of a Big Bird

A magnificent turkey crossing the lawn, observing squirrels
Dance and listening to birds sing,
Wonders about his ominous future.
Envying the carefree birds flying around him, contemplating
The alarming and scary destiny awaiting him and his kin,
He allows his deepest fears to take over:
Why should I be stuffed then roasted and eaten up
Until nothing is left of me but my carcass?
Why should Thanksgiving celebrate my death?
Why wouldn’t I be allowed to live so that I may enjoy
The beauty of nature and the sun shining bright
While watching my children and grandchildren grow
And develop into adult turkeys, adding to the number
Of a proud family! Why wouldn’t I, like a few lucky birds,
Be granted pardon, so I could stop fearing an impending
Death? Only vegetarians are not after my skin. In this
Carnivorous world, it’s comforting to know that some
Compassionate souls care for my safety and well-being!

© Djehane Hassouna, 2006

Rainbow of Emotions, page 65

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