By Jerry Hall
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.
