Of course, I understand
why you are skeptical.
But I do understand bird talk.
At least crow, hawk, hummingbird,
and especially Blue Jay.
Did you not hear
that young Jay
just ask me for a pistachio?
And when I got it,
did you not hear
him say thanks?
Hear them talking now?
Would you like me to interpret?
That old male from last year
is courting that young female.
He has said that he would like
to interest her in a nest.
Now he is saying:
“There are so many
from which to choose.
May I take you on a virtual cruise?
How about this old colonial
with the Confederate flag
on the columns?
Flowers all around
with a view
of the other magnolia trees.
Or maybe a tropical theme,
thatch roof
a jungle feel.
Maybe a more continental setting,
with an A frame
for the Alps.
Or would you prefer
a Cheyenne-hunting lodge
smoke - filled and painted hides?
Perhaps a little beach nest
where we could walk
the ocean side
and see the sun come up.
Or maybe an Eichler
with all the openness
and windows.
Take your choice.
Now I need to see about some
more pistachios.”
Now I ask you,
did that jay not ask about seconds
on the pistachios?
Now that you see that birds court,
should we not do the same?
And about houses --
there are so many to choose from.
August 25,2009