Lake Treasure by David Henson

Ayman Muhammad Elshahat

Lake Treasure

Twinged with disappointment 

my hike through the woods

didn’t reveal a pileated, 

I carry the scent of pines 

to the water where a squawking goose

beats hard, tips left, slants down.

for lake treasure —

rest, food, maybe a mate. 

The bird extends its legs, flares wings, 

splashes, flaps, skids

and glides to a gentle stop

before dunking its head

and pointing its rump skyward

— a bow for a perfect 10.

I refrain from applause,

respecting the quiet

of this arena,

and in that moment

wish for the bird 

something precious 

as it’s given me.

Published in Your Daily Poem, 8/23/2023

© David Henson

David Henson

David Henson and his wife reside in Illinois, USA. His work has been nominated for multiple Pushcart prizes and has appeared in various journals, including Feed the Holy and Best Microfictions 2025. His X handle is @annalou8. His website is http://writings217.wordpress.com

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