Jonathan’s friend…those for whom we care so much are not always human.  Nonetheless, the gratitude they give has a way of touching our hearts deeply.

Animals have a way of touching our hearts in ways that humans cannot.  I have experienced such warmth and love over the years from our little family dogs, Sidney and Bilbo.  When they first entered our home, Sidney as a puppy and Bilbo as an adult dog that we adopted, I felt the need to care for and protect them.  As they gradually became part of our family, our “four-legged furry children,” it seems as though they were the ones providing much of the love and caring.

The poem below is based on a true-life story which was relayed to me by my dear friend and Godmother, Marilyn Hill.  It tells the story of how her neighbor and dog-sitter, Jonathan, befriended a little Adler Flycatcher bird.  Jonathan’s friend sought and received food, shelter and care in her time of need.  But it was Jonathan who received so much more…a sense of love and gratitude and the hope of seeing her again.

Jonathan’s Friend

My what a surprise the little bird did give,

when she landed on my shoulder that day.

How strange it was to see a little creature like her;

so bold, inquisitive and wanting only to stay.

I saw that she was injured and needed my help!

I told her not to fear; that I’d look after her night and day long.

So I fed her, I cared for her and I protected her from harm.

What small things it seems, for in return she sang her sweet song.

The way she gobbled up her berries and flew playfully to and fro.

Her quiet gentleness in simple things surely made me glad.

She brightened my heart and oh how she made me smile…

Her broken wing was healing…that made me both happy and sad.

I thought she’d just gone out for her morning frolic in the trees.

But when she did not return, I knew that she’d decided to leave.

Oh my little friend, I will miss caring for you indeed.

Until you return next year, it is to memories of you I will cleave.

Felecia R. Weber 2014, OntheWingofaDove.com

Photographs courtesy of Marilyn Hill

Peace and love,

Felecia