The Feeder - Both Audio and Text Versions - W-Illustration

One brisk winter morning, as I sat and tried to write, while snow was falling gently on our lawn, I noticed that the seed - inside the feeder just outside the window where I often sit - was gone. It wasn’t long before a hungry sparrow hovered near and then, for but a moment, came to rest Upon the feeder’s lip, and caref’ly scanned the empty tray for what would make a meal back at her nest. I started feeling guilty, as I watched the tiny bird expectantly inspect the tray for food. Speculating she was one of many desperate moms in search of tiny morsels for her brood, “Honey,” I would holler out, “I see the feeder’s empty, I guess we’ll have to make a run to town.” “Yes, I know,” she answered back, “it’s been that way a while, and I would really hate to take it down, But with the bills the way they are, I’m really sad to say…there are no extra funds to pay for seed. I’ve been throwing little bits of bread and crackers to help provide the nourishment they need.” “Oh, come on, dear,” I argued, “in the summertime that’s fine, but when the snow has covered up the ground, Food becomes more scarce, of course, and feeders then become the one consistent place their meals are found. “I’m for buying seed no matter what, and dear, what’s more…I’d like to hang another feeder, too! I’ll give up my ice cream…and I’ll ride my bike to work, so we can pay for both. It’s up to you.” “Fine with me,” she smiled and said, “I love the way you think. To me the birds are…flying works of art. I will always want them near…and spring will bring us more…and we’ll be glad we did our little part.”