A web of green strands

i trace my finger
over the paper
fragile map falling
into square fragments
green patches and lines

Birmingham Greenways
canal paths and streams
woodland and grassland
riverside willows
walking and cycling

criss-crossing railways
roads in the background
here urban wildlife
comes into focus
Birmingham’s secret

how many glad hours
i’ve spent on these routes
pedals rotating
or rhythm of feet
ambling or striding

fingers exploring
the texture of bark
ripples of water
over bright pebbles
delighting the ear