While Mama was sick and lie abedI brought bright flowers to her and said"I hope you're better soon and fed,Tended, mended, and back in good stead."

Years of sunlight haveWarmed the roomsBehind these windowsPlayed across themWith mottled shadowsSummer, winter, spring, fallOn these stonesReflected the sky inWarbled glassWarmed wallsYears and years of sunlightSunlight and shadowsMoonlight and noonlightShadows

Birds from the riverSwirl above the parking lotLanding in the spaces among the carsCrying out in demanding cawsWithout signs they beg for handouts"Will swoop for food!Lost our jobs. Please help"