It was the best of times

We have the plumpest birds, the most complacent Supercilious, disdaining expensive seed Like a cat sniffing at good fish, indeed Hopping about like a kitten who hasn't A glance for mignon, a wild adolescent Bluejay laughing, spilling peanuts goldfinch teetering on a weed Replete birds, sure of us with not a need Carefree with winter chirps and effervescent A red cardinal pecking lazily beneath The feeder, in pale housedress his wife Chickadee, goldfinch, titmouse care For the sunflower seed strewn in a wreath Around the feedpost. Oh, this American life Little brother, truly we must share