I was one of many swans

In a spacious pond

 

Every swan was peaceful

They rode the waters with such ease

As they rode they felt an adventurous pull

 

Everywhere they went they were seekers

Seekers of food and a scenic swim

And mothers taught their young like teachers

 

But not I

I cannot lie

 

I would hunt for food and push others away

It would annoy the other swans

So I was a famished swan by day

 

At night I would get lost and cry with a yelp

It would ruffle their feathers

They would ignore my cry for help

 

I felt so utterly alone

Like my heart was made of stone

 

They thought I was greedy

But deep inside I knew the truth

I was just desperately needy

 

From dusk to dawn I’ve learned the hard way

I will always just be a disgraceful swan

 

(C) Carly Wiggins 2018

Photo credit: Roeselien Ramond