Martha Knies’ rhyme scheme helps her win a slice of pie, bag of bird seed

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Martha Knies poses with her recent prizes. Submitted Photo

June 6, 2009

By Jerry Hall The San Marcos Record Sat Jun 06, 2009, 01:09 PM CDT

Winner of our annual bird poetry contest is Martha Knies of Wimberley. I drove to her lovely hilltop home and delivered a pie from the Wimberley Pie Company. (She first chose strawberry rhubarb but that seasonal variety was not available, so she settled on a lattice-top cherry.) She also received 20 pounds of black oil sunflower seeds.

And, at her special request, I gave her a copy of my book, “Chirps...a collection of birding wit and wisdom from wee Wimberley.” Here is her winning poem:

A Song for

the Soul

I saw a pretty songbird

Perched high up in a tree.

He tossed his head from side to side,

Oblivious to me.

He sang and sang...a melody

That thrilled me with its harmony.

Then, flying to a nearby tree,

He glanced around and spotted me.

He cocked his head as if to say,

“And who are you this glorious day?”

“I’m your friend – a friend indeed,

The one who scatters grain and seed.

One who enjoys your lovely song

That brings me pleasure all day long.”

I feared that he might fly away –

“Just one more song,” I softly pray.

He must have heard my silent prayer,

For another song soon filled the air.

Its notes brought feelings so sublime,

I felt my soul begin to climb.

All too soon, he flew from sight,

And joined a flock in hasty flight.

But the memory of the glorious song

Was fresh inside me all day long.

My spirits soared, my smile returned.

What a precious gift – and all unearned!

I hope you enjoyed this poetic gem and I congratulate Martha on her successful entry. To those of you who sent in poems, please know they were all great and all appreciated; I hope to use more in future columns.

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