avatarDr. Jackie Greenwood

Summary

The web content is a reflective piece on finding hope and warmth in the sight of cardinals during a bleak winter, which inspires the observer to appreciate the moment and anticipate the end of winter.

Abstract

The article titled "Counting Cardinals" uses the imagery of these bright red birds against the starkness of a winter landscape to convey a message of hope. The author, Dr. Jackie Greenwood, describes the experience of being uplifted by the presence of cardinals during a cold and seemingly endless winter. The piece emphasizes the power of nature's beauty to bring joy and the reminder that winter is temporary. It encourages readers to pause and simply observe the world around them, finding solace in the small wonders of nature. The article also acknowledges the work of R. Rangan Ph.D. and Eileen Vorbach Collins, suggesting a community of writers sharing stories of resilience and encouragement.

Opinions

  • The author expresses that the sight of cardinals in winter brings a sense of warmth and life, contrasting with the cold and barren environment.
  • There is an underlying optimism that winter will pass, just as previous winters have, symbolized by the melting ice.
  • The act of counting the cardinals is presented as a mindful exercise that distracts from negative thoughts and focuses on the present moment.
  • The author finds inspiration in the simplicity of observing nature, suggesting that this practice can provide emotional sustenance during challenging times.
  • The article implies that sharing stories, like the ones mentioned by R. Rangan Ph.D. and Eileen Vorbach Collins, is a courageous act that can offer hope and connection to others.

S&S Prompt: Hope

Counting Cardinals

To vanquish the winter blues

Photo by Carol Carpenter on Unsplash

I stand frozen in time no longer inspired by the pristine white of this too long too cold season

But staring at the winter tree I catch a flash of red, such stark contrast to the naked branches

like oxygenated blood like electricity like warmth

it forces a smile

don’t think, just look

three, now four males and there, the beak of a female and another, peeking through the brush

don’t think, just listen

a crack- the ice is melting and this winter like the last, shall soon pass

© Dr. Jackie Greenwood 2021

Thanks to R. Rangan Ph.D. for beautiful her poem:

And I have to share this courageous story by Eileen Vorbach Collins

On the lighter side, another winter bird encounter :

Thanks for your time :)

Poetry
Winter
Self
Hope
Prompt
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