Years ago, working to retire
my heartfelt litany of
I’m sorrys, I decided

to replace them with
a dozen or more simple
thank yous each day.

Not that I keep track,
but I still toss handfuls
of gratitude to the wind

like the tiny specks of seed
that my neighbor leaves
on the corner of our block

for our wild bird friends,
trusting that those in need
will find it. And that some

who land, briefly peck, then
take off again, will fly away
with perhaps a bit more

than they need, prompting
them to drop morsels
of kindness where others

may pick it up and pass it on.
As you do, again and again—
and you and you and you—

thank you very much,
as I do, too,
just because we can.