Free to Fly

Let me please be free

Let me perch on a tree

Let me soar and fly

Let me go beyond the clouds in the sky!

Why do you want to go out and fly?

When in my cage you can be dry

Why get drenched in the rain?

When I'll make sure you'll face no pain

I'm built to hop and fly

I'm meant to reach places high

I have wings to spread

I have nothing to fear and dread

Why search for muddy puddles, can't you think?

When you can have clean water to drink?

Why hunt for worms and peck at a random seed

When you can eat fortified birdseed?

There's joy in seeking different tastes

There's no fun in eating processed pastes

There's no harm in sipping dew drops

There's excitement in checking out diverse crops

Why jostle with other birds for place

When you can enjoy your personal space?

Why sleep with the worry of dangers lurking

When you can simply enjoy dreaming?

There's enough place to rest in nature

There aren't any dangers when I'm with those who nurture

There's always contentment when there's no dearth

There's plenty of warmth in the lap of Mother Earth

I wish to be free

I want to build my nest on a tree

I don't wish to be jailed

I don't want my flight to be curtailed.

I understand and respect your choice

I hope, from time to time, I hear your melodious voice

I get it, you wish to be unfettered

I wish you luck and bid you adieu, my friend feathered!

--Meenakshi Nandula