Robin in the Snow

I come home from teaching two classes, and notice that a former student of mine, now a disk jockey in Minnesota, is on duty. I stream the live feed from the Internet, and listen to this song, that touches so many parts inside of me...

Spring is trying to peak through, days that tease us with warmth, juxtaposed with days of cold and biting wind, and I think of the three robins I saw earlier this week, dancing in my backyard...

Robin in the Snow

I saw a robin flying in the snow
fluttering low.
Isn't it the season, how could he not know?
It's much too cold

I saw a robin captive to the wind
Time, running thin.
I said, "Dear robin, what a state you're in.
You can't get out again."

And just like that
Simple as the sight of feathered wings
The robin was gone
And only I saw this bird of spring
Sing one very last winter song.

And who will miss you when you're gone?
Who will miss you when you're gone?
I will miss you if you go away.
Please don't leave me here.

Candles burned out right now
Stayed up 'till the wax dripped, to the floor.
I was talking to you, can't seem to let go
So we say one thing more.

You're like rain falling in the evening
Whispering "Darlin' go to sleep."
Oh, the pain, this love that's got me reelin'
Brings me to my knees, so bittersweet.

And who will miss you when you're gone?
Who will miss you when you're gone?
I will miss you if you go away.
Please don't leave me here.

The good, the bad, the in between
Is it all just one impermanent dream?

And here I am, as the sun slinks slowly
In the pale steel sky and where are you?
Are you thinking of me
As the moon above you does rise?

And who will miss me when I am gone?
Who will miss me when I'm gone?
Would you miss me? Should I go away?
I won't leave you here...

- Sonya Kitchell