The Cardinal Pair

For my Grandma who passed away on Saint Valentine’s Day, 1978

The cardinal pair, each fall they came 
To Grandma’s feeder stand -- 
Out the window where she sat lame 
All winter were at hand. 

I never knew the dreams she had: 
Her tongue the stroke did stay; 
But spirit soared, her eyes grew glad 
When crimson flew her way. 

And then one day their wings grew cold 
For she had gone away; 
No longer did the feeder hold 
The seed which friendship lays. 

My friend, while I still have my speech 
This chance cannot pass by 
To lay my seed within your reach -- 
Perchance you may draw nigh.

… an ode to friendship.