CoalCracker

I have a lilac bush in my yard that has been having a rough couple years. The tallest branches were as high as my garage and have had some type of fungus on them causing rot. I decided to cut them back this year, to allow the smaller branches that are still thriving, to take over and hopefully regrow to it’s full glory. I left the branches in my yard to offer to my neighbor for his outdoor fire pit the next time I see him. The few days following the trim, I was outside doing other yard work and noticed a Robin Fledgling sitting on the cut branches, staring at me as I worked and then moving over beneath what is left of the lilac. I asked ChatGPT to

Prompt:

Write a poem from the perspective of the robin to the lilac bush that has been cut back, but also has some new growth that one day might be tall strong branches again, but not in time for the robin to sit on them.

Dear Lilac, you were to be my start, The first branch I’d know, the beat of my heart. But as I emerged, ready to soar, I found you not as you were before.

Your arms that once held stories of old, Lie scattered and cut, weathered and cold. Dreams of my first flutter, my premiere song, Now feel so distant, so distant and long.

Yet in your scars, there lies a tale, Of rebirth and hope, that will not fail. Fresh buds tell of a day anew, Where fledglings like me will take their debut.

Though I might never feel your full embrace, I trust in time, you’ll find your grace. New birds will perch, with songs profound, But know my first heartbeat was with you, unbound.

So grow, dear Lilac, once more stand tall, With patience and love, you’ll conquer all. I’ll cherish our moments, however slight, For you’ll always be my first flight’s delight.

The primary image for the post is one I asked Dall-E to create with the following prompt

Prompt:

abstract oil painting of a robin fledgling sitting under what used to be a full, tall lilac that has been cut back to just a few new branches