Quietly, so as not to rustle a leaf or grass I neared the edge of the pond and hid behind a bush aware of each blink of an eye or twitch of muscle. I waited patiently with great anticipation. The glistening of the water as the sun shone down sent rainbows of color as far as my eyes could see. A slight breeze made the undulating water sparkle like little pixies performing a morning ballet. A flutter in the sky above me made me shiver, until I realized a flock of geese had landed, arriving for a morning swim in cool water. They seemed happy to be there, unaware of danger. I heard a splash as a fish jumped up to catch a bug, then watched a water snake wiggle to the other side. The chirping of birds lent music to my waiting ears. So much life happening in this isolated spot. I felt like an intruder, and yet I couldn’t leave. The tranquil surroundings and solitude, were calming; another world from the one I had left behind me, even if I could only be here for a short time. And then! I heard the snort that I had been waiting for. Majestic and grand, he stood at the edge of the woods, Observing, listening for anything not familiar. My heart was pounding, I tried to still my excitement. With a shake of his head, he walked to the water’s edge. The massive rack on his crown affirmed his kingly state. The forest was so quiet, barely a sound was heard, except the lapping of the buck as he quenched his thirst. Then suddenly, he turned and ran back into the woods, almost like a phantom had come and gone in seconds. Through the years I have been taken back there in my mind. Then I’m revived again by the memory of that day. 32 Lines Free Form Poetry |