Poem for Redbird

    Poem for Redbird

    I always think that the best way
    to know God is to love many things.
    — Vincent Van Gogh

    In spring and summer
    I barely noticed you
    among the flower blooms.

    When autumn came
    you blended in with the
    brightly colored leaves.

    But in winter
    with bare branches
    and snow covered ground

    you were still there
    bringing beauty and comfort
    like a lullaby in the night.

    There are those who believe
    that you have been sent
    by loved ones now departed.

    But this I know
    there is a word you represent
    and that word is love.

    — Dan Hardison

While I Wasn't Looking

    While I Wasn't Looking

    It has been several days
    since I passed this way
    and gazed upon the maple tree.
    Now as I approach
    with a chill in the air
    I see things have changed.
    The leaves of scarlet and gold
    have taken flight
    and lie on the ground.
    While I wasn't looking
    the seasons changed
    and now it is a winter tree.

    — Dan Hardison


The Wise Owl
December 2025