. . . (old one from 1976)
.
I thought it safe inside my cage,
but could I learn to fly?
Such warmth between those steel walls,
but would my spirit die?
.
So when I found the gate was raised
a trifle bit too high
I closed my eyes and held my breath
and jumped into the sky.
.
In fear I fell, a feathered stone,
my throat choked out a cry,
Is this the end? Was I a fool
to kiss my cage goodbye?
.
All I did was flounder more
as night was drawing nigh.
It seemed the worst was happening
and none could tell me why.
.
Then something warm stirred at my sides,
my wings were going to try!
The dawn broke only just in time
to blow my feathers dry.
.
At last I could fly sure and straight
with clarity of eye.
Free and strong, I knew now
that my cage had been a lie.
.
© 1976, 2012 Betty Hayes Albright
Seasonings 
Yes I love the poem as I hate to see animals of any type caged!!
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Thank you, Willow – I also hate seeing animals in cages – even fish in aquariums doesn’t seem right!
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So wise and gifted you were, way back in 1976. My daughter was three and my son was two and I strove to find one or two hours for writing per week in those days! Imagine! So wise you were to know your “cage” was an illusion that yet would have held you back had you not identified that illusory state.
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Granbee, fun to hear what you were doing in 1976. My sons were 4 and 5 at the time, and it WAS hard to find time for writing – but it was one of those necessities of life (as it still is). So glad you also kept writing. 🙂
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This is so lovely, Betty…..so impressive to see your writing has always had such great quality over the years. My ‘old’ poems from back in the day are quite embarrassing by contrast!
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Thanks for your comment, Planaquarium!
Most of my old poetry is also pretty embarrassing… about 90% of it. Have you kept all of yours? I’m sure it’s not as bad as you think it is! 🙂
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This is lovely! It stands the ‘test of time’ admirably!
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Thank you, David – nice of you to say so! 🙂
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What a great awakening, and a young poem too. Ethel
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Thank you, Ethel!
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Betty this is lovely.
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Glad you like it, Soul Walker. 🙂
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A lovely poem Betty.
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Thank you very much, dribbling pensioner!
(Would it be okay if I called you “D.P.” in the future? 🙂 My fingers are getting lazy….)
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Hello I have nominated you for an award please takes a look at my blog.
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Thank you, Kirsty!!
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Betty it may be an oldie but it’s an absolute goodie…I love this – Jane
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Thank you, Jane! 🙂
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I love this, too, Betty, and it’s quite obvious your talent has been with you over the years! I don’t think I’d have the courage to share my “oldies!” xx
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Thanks, Lauren! It does take a little courage – most of my old stuff is worthy only of the trash can! 🙂 I’d like to see some of your old poetry though – you might be surprised, it’s probably better than you think!
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Most stay in their cages, clutching the bars and peering out fearfully, even when the door is open. Good poem Betty.
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Thank you, Dennis – what you say is sadly true!
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It’s amazing how we get used to anything. This poem reminds me how there are cages all around me, shackling me yet I don’t see them because I think they are the way things ought to be. I’m going to turn off to start again. Betty! Thank you for the booster shot of inspiration.
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Peter, thank you, I’m happy this gave you a booster shot! I need one of those often – it’s surprising how we let new cages form without realizing it. The fun part, though, is that the “sky” keeps expanding more and more with each new leap! 🙂
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It reminds me much of my thoughts as I wrote my post “enclosure”. Indeed our cage is often either a lie, or a reality that we ourselves create and can destroy. Magnificently done, Betty. You are ever the artist and thinker. I am amazed you find time to squeeze chocolate chip cookies into your day and still create such brilliant art 🙂
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V W, there’s ALWAYS time for a chocolate chip cookie! Thank you for such a nice comment once again. 🙂
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Ah, this is wonderful, Betty! Learning to fly–can’t beat the rush!!
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Thanks, Caddo!!
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A neatly told little tale of inspiration and encouragement.
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Thank you for your nice comment, Ben.
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Beautiful and inspiring…..I loved this poem! 🙂
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Glad you liked it, Celeste!
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