In this moment
I am surrounded by people, birds, and animals
They smile at me from the mantle here in my living room
They tell me of life in other places and other times
Some are from Africa, from Native American tribes, from India
Their stances tell me their stories
Some war-like, some peaceful
One is an Innuit stone carving of a bird
A foot tall and heavy
The bird looks at me
“All is well,” it says. “Do not be afraid.”
I find comfort
Knowing an Innuit chose that stone
Chipped away the excess
Freed the bird inside
To offer calmness and peace
A gift that transcends time and space

I love how you said the bird was freed from inside the stone. I never imagined sculpture that way but it is so true that the subject is indeed freed. Nice.
Thank you. I appreciate your specific feedback. That is most helpful.
Love it! Janice Keller Kvale, PhD, FACNM 4818 Berkman Drive Austin TX 78723 You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. C.S. Lewis
Thank you, Janice.