my first meeting with a chipmunk

my first meeting with a chipmunk


at the edge of the sand
bathing on rocks
we watch each other carefully
curious and lonely for companionship

i speak softly to him
imitating, offering cherries
placing them on flat stones
sweet and accessible to his little hands

i hold my breath and finally he takes one
trusting and pleased
we share fruit in silence by the kootenay lake