One

On the first day
we count from one.

The singular force of nothing
simply stares us in the face.

Dare us to look in the mirror
and see who is looking back.

Open your mouth to speak
and listen to the sound released
like a wounded wild bird from her cage.

This time there is no one
knocking at the door asking to be let in.

The wind convinces the clattering branches
of the body to drop to the earth
and let the soul fly free.