The migrating birds arrive from south of the equator to southern California, the beginning of every April.
They flap their graceful wings tirelessly, in unison with their flock; together they focus their intent in reaching their destination guided by instinct. They reach the sunny shores of southern California for a place to call home for a while, away from the scarcity and harsh conditions of winter in the south.
I laugh gregariously which rings as genuine as faux diamonds. My hands reach out to hold your shoulders, embracing you lightly as if to ascertain of your solid form next to me as you sit on my right.
I animatedly share a funny anecdote with those on the table with us. My mind simultaneously, dares not think (for thoughts and words have power), of the little alarm set off by the pronounced boniness I perceive under the various layers of clothing you wore that day.
Just two weeks before you asked me to pass you a cotton swab soaked in a solution to wet your chapped lips. They would not allow you consume food nor water for several days; no wonder you seem almost emancipated. Your boniness reminds me of a little bird, although fragile, also tenacious and free-spirited.
My counterfeit laughter is set off again by something said, and again my hands reach to your shoulders, as if my intention was to slap you on the shoulders for emphasis. I steal a glance at your face to file this moment in my memory bank.
.
Your profile shows your pale skin, weather beaten more than usual. Your large, long-lashed eyes enunciate your Greek heritage. Your kind of beauty does not erode with time, or illness; nothing can touch it, for it is endogenous. You radiate an innate beauty born of grace, true goodness, and a stout heart.
You are part of me, as I am of you. Yet, I am taller and bigger than you in comparison. You seem that much smaller and graceful as a little bony bird, which I could gather in the pocket next to my heart.
.
You seem like a fragile little bird with beautiful eyes, yet I know one with tenacity, and fiery independence, who chose to fly one day from the harsh winters south of the equator, to the balmy shores of southern California.
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