House of Worship

On Sunday I visit my house of worship
the one located just a few miles from home
it's called Trustom Wildlife Refuge

Today is sunny and warm and as I stroll down
the various trails that take you to breathtaking vistas
I pass other parishioners who have come to enjoy
the serenity of this house of worship, and,
in lieu of a bible, they bring binoculars, cameras, and walking sticks
At times I'd like the parishioners to please hush
so as not to disturb the sermon offered by the various songbirds

My senses are in overload...

the sounds of life – the sight of flight
as dozens of birds and their songs fill the air,
accompanied by a multitude of dragonflies, hummingbirds and butterflies

in the pond peppered with lily pads I hear the
crocking from the elusive bullfrogs 
and as I sit for a bit enjoying the ambiance,
a bird swoops down so quickly and snatches something from the pond
that I am unable to identify predator or prey

I inhale an earthy smell mixed with the fragrance from assorted
wildflowers of purple and yellow and pink

After hours of worship I head back to the car
a tiny bird perched atop the tallest tree sings loudly
and I think it's reminding me to return for service next week.