The Sparrow King

A young boy finds peace in the company of sparrows.

The Sparrow King

         

Bert Haagtenstad

         Watching the other birds, listening to their songs, and their chirping, while a ten-year-old boy waits. Tucked up among branches and leaves. It was early, but he knew they flew with the sun rising. Against the blue, cloudless sky, he watched for the glitter of gray or red with white. For his birds, his faithful followers. Wait in the remaining silence.
         In the distance, the sun reflects off white wings, and soon the sky fills with hundreds of sparrows. He smiles, knowing soon his sparrows will surround him. Remaining perfectly still and making no noise, he waits.
         The sparrows landed in the surrounding trees. Some were within inches of him. They sang for him, and he closed his eyes, lost in the song. He reclaimed the peace and the feeling of being loved. He feels their admiration and the sense that he is the sparrow king.