Charlie

The sun had yet to crest the western sky

Darkness huge over the family farm

My dad and I headed out to do chores

It was always a treat going with dad

I was too young to do much actual work

But dad made me feel like I was a huge help

I would usual run ahead of him from pen to pen

The cattle were my favorite to feed

They were in the pen furthest from the house

After tending to the sheep, we headed that direct

I ran ahead so I could marvel at Charlie

Charlie was our big majestic Brahma rooster

He’d perch on a fence on the way to the cattle pen

Every morning he was there standing guard

Over what, I never knew, but he was always there

His orange and black feathers glistened is the sun,

As it now began raising its head above the horizon

Charlie’s eyes kept a close watch on my every move

Most days he stood tall and just watched

His feather covered feet held to the fence

However, today, he stared into my eyes

And all of sudden let out a loud squawk

Then flew directly toward my face, claws extended

I rose my arm blocking the attack

Screaming in shock and fear I felt his claws hit my arm

Blood began to flow as I felt his wings slap my face

Dad ran toward the attacker but not fast enough

Charlie dropped to the ground and with dad nearing he backed away

My arm blooded, tears rolling down my face

Dad took me inside to mom

Mom’s loving care seemed to help

As she wiped away the blood and tears

Dad went to the closet then headed back outside

Moments later a gun shot rang out loud and clear