In the stillness of
The snow drenched world
Whitening hush reigns
With care and reverent awe
Sneakered feet gingerly step
Through deep drifted ledges
Seeking oasis of bare-limbed tree
Harboring hardy feathered friends
“Cheep” descends from on high
Simple and heart-piercing greeting
Chapped hand cautiously outstretched
Open offering of sunflower seed
Frigid wind ripples palm edges
Tilts paltry kernel pile
“Cheep” returns, lowering, nearer
Contemplating proffered snack
Multiple “cheeps” betray
Lingering consideration
In caution, seeds are va-taken
Fingers numbing
She ground scatters seed
Retreats with loving upward glance
Gifting and gifted, both.
