October 2026

Posted in: June 2020 Edition

Bird

Julie Stevens


I scooped handfuls of pink confetti

gave it wildly to the sky and watched it

float down to my hair, cheeks, nose, wings

and there I was, perched on my branch of blossom


singing thanks to my velvet landing and

wings of release. My beak looks fine don’t

you think? Playing this rousing tune to all

around, collecting delight in my chocolate opal


feathers, skinny legs, like hers down the road

and beautiful stretching wings. But I can’t stay.

I need to taste the lift once more, feel the rush

and hover light knowing I’m safe


I’ll return to the grind when I’m done

these wings show me what it’s like to soar

Come now, ride with me, you won’t

stumble in clouds


julie-stevens
Julie Stevens

Julie Stevens has had Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for 30 years. Her poems tend to reflect the impact MS has on her life, as well as other topics close to her heart. Her poems have recently been published in various magazines, online and in print, most recently The Blue Nib, The Honest Ulsterman, Dodging the Rain and Dreich. Her chapbook Quicksand has recently been published by Hybrid Press having come second in the Dreich Chapbook Competition. Her website is: www.jumpingjulespoetry.com.

More work by Julie Stevens

1968 - 2026

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