Life has slowed to a gentler beat
a measured waltz, no more frantic tango
in this lockdown world,
lake ripples still fold and chase to shore
while autumn sunlight glints on oak leaves
and flax: a bushel of green swords reaching skyward.
The dogs are happy, more walks and splashing,
parents watch their children and dip toes
plenty of time, no appointments made,
small native ducks, their black heads tucked,
paddle, fossick for food or drift
ambition irrelevant,
our world reduced to a bubble.
But if we can be like the ducks
paddle away these slower days and
enjoy the autumn sun on our backs,
we’ll be okay.