Oscar the Rooster

We were all confused when a rooster showed up in our suburban senior community, considering there are no farms nearby. The colorful bird strutted from porch to porch for corn and other goodies from generous neighbors, and then roosted in trees at night.

One neighbor, Richard, became especially close with the rooster, named Oscar by the neighbors. Richard has lingering from military service, and spending time outside with Oscar noticeably improved his outlook.

Then disaster struck: Richard was hospitalized, and while he was away, the township took Oscar. When Richard returned, he was crushed to find his friend gone. He went to the animal shelter to spring him, but there was a hefty fee for Oscar’s release.

Two days later, I heard a familiar cock-a-doodle-doo. Oscar had reappeared! We’re not sure how our jailbird was sprung, but we suspect a neighbor bailed him out.

Every time I hear Oscar crow, I’m grateful that Richard’s life is a bit more livable thanks to Oscar’s company.