July 10, 2026
Good morning!
It’s Friday, and there’s a new rooster in town. I’m not quite sure where this one lives, but he’s definitely new at being a rooster. Every morning he lets out the most amusing and sincere tentative squawks, as if he’s been watching YouTube videos and still isn’t sure how it works.
I’ve taken to offering words of encouragement from our porch whenever our friend makes another attempt.
“Almost there!” I’ll shout. “You’ve got this!” “We believe in you!”
Sometimes I’ll hear the echo of roosters from other parts of the peninsula. I’m not sure if that helps or just makes our friend feel more self-conscious.
But I have faith that he’ll come into his own and make us all proud.
“The only way to find your voice is to use it.”
—Austin Kleon
Respiteers, won’t you join me in using your voice in our imaginary pavilion this afternoon? As always, check your inbox right before 2pm EDT for the magic link.
Onwards we go,
Clara
Or maybe, just maybe, you are hearing a hen. In a flock without a rooster, the alpha hen will often take on the rooster's duties, including trying to crow. (But not, of course, one other normal rooster role....) The "crowing" is often somewhat lacking. So says a friend of mine who keeps chickens.
I love your painterly photo.
And let your voice be heard with love 💚