Cardinal Words

A cardinal sat on her April perch
and sang out a melody:

"That which is beautiful
You cannot possess
For that which is beautiful
Possesses you."

I cleared the mist in my eyes
and listened on.

"That which is the truth
You need not justify
For that which is the truth
Seeks no proof."

And as I moved in closer
the farther she moved me.

"That which is love
You cannot command or contain
For that which is love
Gives without demands
And transcends all bounds."

She sang out her last verse
before flying into the dawn.

"That which is free
You cannot acquire
For that which is free
Is free from acquisition
Free of fear and retribution
And free, free, free
Even when caged."