Helmeted Honeyeater

Ruffled, ash covered, endangered,

Crumpled, quiet.

Warm hands reach down,

No fight, no strength.

Heart speeding, breath staggered,

Gentle fingers help.

Now wet,

Grey water washes away

New hands, same home,

Blackened, bare.

Far off pale green,

Hope. Life.

Sleek, yellow, black,

Soaring, free.