The Gosling

By Andrew R. Duckworth

The gosling steps cautiously,
Even in following the steps
Of its watchful mother.
It’s an obedient child,
Learning all of the lessons
Poured out from a mind of experience,
-Watching, internalizing, mimicking.
But, one day, an act of rebellion
Will come, the only one that matters,
One that is expected but mourned.
The gosling will run off on its own
And seek its own life,
Reject the shelter of its parents,
Yet still understand need of family.