Bedraggled female cardinal

Pecks at seed crumbs at my feet

I'm guessing she is older

And desperate for food to eat

Just inches from my sneaker

She hops, tilting head sideways

Eyeballing meager seed crumbs

I wish I could toss her maize

I must not move a muscle

Brief fellowship a gift trust

Rarer than gems and baubles

My joy threatens to combust

Joy also tinged with sadness

I cannot spare free creature

Daily struggles to survive

I realize she's a teacher

Struggle is universal

A symbol we are living

Must not be sad, find joy

Living with thanks and giving