The Gift

This morning we met on the orchard path

And before meeting, I checked my list:
Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts?, Quality Time, and Physical Touch
(I still couldn't remember your preference, so my plan
was to try 'em all)

Beneath the trees 
the leaves lay in circles 
like skirts dropped by ballerinas

As I struggled to say the words
that would bring you into my arms
the sky exhaled
and an angel landed on your head!

We stopped moving breathing
although your ears wiggled
as you looked up

I studied the angel's feet
Those of a young woman
graceful, narrow, and slightly birdlike
long toes gripping your shoulders

Then more surprise as the angel let loose a quiet fart
like a lamb testing a tiny trumpet
A faint scent blossomed
honeysuckle musk?

The angel's face (no mask!) mixed mirth and melancholy
grey eyes gazed beyond the earth
longing for her kind

One tremendous flap  
she was gone
A feather the size of a baby's pinkie spiraled to the ground

Your hands moved up to your messed hair
and lifted an egg from the top of your head

Tonight I've wrapped the egg
I’m keeping it warm
I just checked my list again
You better get over here