When putting up a fence, consider adding
a potential opening—maybe a gate
that doubles as a doorway,

swinging in, swinging out to allow access.
Or perhaps build an entire wall of doors
that might open and shut at will,

each different from its neighbor,
each wearing a unique knob, some
with screens, others with a window.

Possibly add birdhouses to the doors—
perfect for miniature structures
where feathered friends might decide

to take up temporary residence, forage
for twigs in the garden, fluffing up their
own selves for nesting softness.

Let this be an opportunity to
perhaps, instead of constructing
impermeable walls, create openings,

encourage the pass-throughs
of this one and that one, leaving
entrances and exits open to all

with a bit of whimsical welcome,
a friendly invitation mixed with
great heart and a smidgen of hope.