Repost: A Friend Indeed

I have been considering reposting this one for a while, but thought the snowy painting was past its season. Until yesterday – the snow has returned in depth!

A Friend Indeed

O, the wild constancy

of the brave chickadee

simply changing his tune

like the man in the moon

for the tilt of the sky

as the seasons pass by.

Fitting a snug black cap

feathers all in a flap

it would seem for bad news

like everything to lose

with a cat prowling low

and the winds biting so.

But let’s have no real grief

bother this welcome thief

who’s scolding and chuckling

while squirrels are ducking

aerobatics for need

not insatiable greed.

Taking one sweet kernel

to task with a gurgle

pounding out on a limb

for cracking it open

and easy digestion

enjoyed without question.

I hold out my warm hand

in wonder not command

indeed only hoping

my offer he’s scoping

instead berries so bright

seeming more a delight.

Ah, then he’s looking back

at what I do not lack

listening for his voice

and smiling for his choice

so the touch of his trust

makes our friendship a must.

I have a precious little bird book from 1909 that includes the following description of the Black-Capped Chickadee (native to the Eastern US):

‘The Chickadees are one of the most popular birds that we have, owing to their uniform good nature even in the coldest weather, and their confiding disposition.’

What a lovely characterization of this sociable songbird!

A glimpse of my home (log cabin) in the snow

©Artwork, writing and photography unless otherwise indicated, are the property of Diane M Denton. Please request permission to reproduce or post elsewhere with a link back to bardessdmdenton. Thank you.