A Birthday in the Glen.

A home away from home;

Where you hear the accents of many;

A mixture of people, to share a day,

A special event; one of those that come,

Less frequently.

A host of dignitaries, representatives,

In government, Federal, Provincial, Local.

Each has a chance to speak;

To endorse the benefit of celebration.

How enthusiastic the singing by a few,

Of an anthem that is lacking;

Faith or understanding.

A colour party presents a symbolic flag.

Aged veterans; Whose sacrifice is unknown!

Unrewarded! Unrecognized!

A Citizen; Exemplary is presented,

For her contribution, to community;

Significant to whom? A plaque, certificate,

A duck; symbolic of hierarchy.

Crowds milling aimlessly wander;

Amongst each other; Shared conversations,

There are some, between snacks.

Concession booths purloin their wares,

Simple, unpretentious, basic goods.

Food, fast, greasy, animal product,

Homebaked cakes and cookies.

The day co-operates with lightly clouded,

Sunny warm skies.

A fast flowing, not so crystal clear river,

Babbles its way along close by.

People and pets, dogs paddle briefly.

Some don't, stubborn sit, or edge back,

Until safer progression in contrary direction.

Feet tramp through low grass.

A difference in shoe, or sandal, or runner;

No reflection of culture; Or value!

Bare limbs are flaunted by slim tops;

Low cut shorts, some unsuitable,

For propriety sake.

Music plays, what experience to share?

A Folk singer, tries to communicate,

An image, a different picture.

Canada from coast to coast.

People the same, sometimes places;

Of buildings, of power, of responsibility.

The flair of dancers; A Western culture;

Uniforms abound; Flared skirt, denim jeans, cowboy shirt;

Topped by hats, or coloured bands, tied up hair.

A pet show, instant, chaotic;

Mostly dogs, different in colour, size.

Who cleans up after their constitution?

Birds of prey; tethered, presented,

By a professional; Killer! Only of other birds;

Is it humane?

July 1st, 1993. © Will George.