Must be nice, said the Eagle to the Hen.
Spending all day in that cozy little pen.
No wind to consider or hunting for prey,
Full food pan. Fresh water all day.
It's all I've ever known the Eagle heard her say,
The farmer comes in. We get out of the way.
It's eggs he's after, so I leave one or two.
One tired old rooster. What's a girl to do?
Then the Hen said to the Eagle, after thoughtful pause,
Must be nice to have strong wings and claws.
Soaring through the sky, hunting as you roam,
Clean water from the lake. A husband all your own.
It's all I've ever known, the Hen heard her say.
Hanging out above the trees, riding the wind all day.
The food I catch is tasty, but it makes a terrible noise.
My husband? Don't see him much, always flying with the boys.
They are Sisters of the feather, each a mom and wife.
Aves in the scheme of things, living very different lives.
They sat together quietly, knowing they may not talk again.
New respect. Much in common. Each one a new friend.
Finally, the Hen smiled and said...
Must be nice to be an Eagle.
Then, the Eagle nodded and said...
Must be nice to be a Hen.