We went at sunrise.

Misty morning,
grass glistened with dew.
The Shrine Circus had come to town
and posted flyers advertising:

Come watch our magnificent elephants
raise the big tent!
It takes a small army to do that!
Shrine Circus – The Greatest Show in Town!

We walked the grounds
in awe and wonder
as the elephants were brought out.
We stood back
out of their way.

The poles were rolled into place,
and the elephants pulled
and lifted them upright.
The shimmering tent
came alive with their help.

I couldn’t believe my eyes
or my luck
to witness this miracle moment.
So smart.
So beautiful.
So big.

We overheard a carny telling someone
this is when they sell the most tickets—
after people see this
and feel part of the magic.
The bulk of sales are made.

The elephants
steal the show.

As it should be,
I thought quietly to myself.

Elephants have held
a special home in my heart
ever since.

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