A Gentle Tune

I took a morning stroll down the sidewalk and stopped by the cedar arbor at the community garden. Resting on the wooden bench was a pocket-sized music box made of clear acrylic, its golden brass gears gleaming in the morning light. Setting my star wand safely against a bench slat, I stepped forward and wrapped both paws around the tiny metal crank. Leaning my weight in, I turned the handle in a slow, steady circle. The pinned cylinder rotated, and a bright, tinkling melody drifted softly into the air like miniature bells. It felt wonderful to listen while everything stayed peaceful and warm.