Scatter Me for the Birds

The gospel according to nature
isn't written, as it needs no words.
So when my time passes, let them
feast on all I've seen and heard.

Nature has its own religion,
one that still remains undisturbed.
There is beauty even in the macabre,
so won't you scatter me for the birds.

So on that faithful evening,
morning, noonday or night,
they can eat their fill, and with them,
my spirit can, at last, take flight.

Author's Note

Photo by Morgan Newnham

Reviews

[Kelly Scheppers]

A most profound piece of writing! The caliber you exude in expression is utterly delightful. I was awed to say the least, and quite envious that I didn't write it! Good to meet you, Wesley! Thank you for a most engaging read!

[Betty Hermelee]

Dear Wesley
I love this poem, so creative...and you incorporate nature and creatures of nature in such an imaginative way...Especially the way you would like to cease life and give up your core to the birds ...why not let them have a feast?...though a bit distressing, I understand your reasoning....
Warmly, B

[Wesley Dingler]

Thank you, B.
I don't like dealing in metaphor that much, because I tend to get lost in the tall grass so often.
Nevertheless, I feel like every writer is somehow scattered to the birds upon passing in some way or other. ... Whether it's critics, readers, or whatever. And some part of me says, I'm fine with that, scatter me as you will. One way or another, I will return to the nature I love.

[Betty Hermelee]

it’s really a way of letting yourself be a part of nature alive and dead…. and why not? as always a pleasure to read your work
warmly, B

[Michael Sun Bear]

I absolutely love your poem. Birds are extra special for me, I have a bird oasis on my deck. I care for them, ensure they have enough food to sustain through winter, extra calories if molting. The idea of becoming bird feed delights me. And taking spiritual flight as a bird.

[Wesley Dingler]

Thank you so much, Michael. I myself am a nature lover, particularly of birds and plants. Some morbid part of me was driven by the idea that we all become food for one or the other.
I know that sounds grim, but I myself seem to find a beauty in even the macabre. A beauty in the natural cycle of things, you know?

[Wesley Dingler]

And I figure, if I can see a beautiful sight in that, I can see beauty in anything.