School Days

His white shirt and gray pants push through the morning rain

The frayed straps of knowledge,

hanging loose on a 10 year old back.

A waiting father kindly urges him on

Juggles the bag and tests the weight.

Perhaps, to straddle the gap between conformity and comfort.

In the paddy fields

The white stork

flaps its snow white wings

Heavy,

with each wingbeat of responsibility

 and takes flight.