My Cardinal

My Cardinal Peeking from his low branch, eyes darting from here to there- soldier reconnoitering, heart in his breast beating strong, he continues to cock his red head, listening for the foe. The sun shines his feathers bright, more crimson there to see. The wind gently blows his tufted crown  unruffled smooth, furried friends watch him now, as swiftly down he goes. All about the feeder ground, he parades in mini-steps, then quickly ascends to his safe perch, and nods,imperceptibly, as she in sun-bleached-red comes down. Daintily she takes her short quick walk as round the feeder she goes, pecking tiny black sunseed nuggets, savoring each morsel, while he stares, feeling his outstretched bright wing protecting her from unknown foes. Then invisibly the warning note is made, as his alert signal translates the news, that time for her safety now has passed. ..and with nary a second little pace, she flies readily to him, trusting his song,  soaring in tandem to their waiting glade. Unseen now what more can be known?  What secrets, delights, humor share? How close does each wing flutter near their hearts, accenting their deep love? Will they partner always nature's reel, knowing it is only His sweet loan? Written December 22nd, 2001 © on Dec 21 2001 11:26 PM PST   0 • 8