A rattle on the window

an urgent summons

His granddaughter, and the family,

could not leave

nor pass a fledgling pigeon

lying behind their car.

Gold baby strands still adorning,

this flyer, not yet ready for air.

Ronnie’s ‘old school’ hands always decisive

In matters of life and death

scooped the bird 

and lay it firmly in a makeshift nest

with seeds and water.

We called it Cedar and I swear

the watchful adult pigeons were thankful.

Cedar heaved

extended wings, 

breathed deep

eyes active, willing to live.

We thought about a second hand dovecote

for this determined bird,

son or daughter of the great homing pigeon clan.

Messengers.

Always heading home. 

Finally there was no sign of Cedar.

I thought of Cedar taking pirouettes in the air

feeling the north wind rushing past while 

flying, protected within the flock.

Was it a day later?

I noticed, first, two adult pigeons mid fence top. 

They stayed until I reached Cedar

slowly moving amongst the roots of our climbing roses.

  

I doubt it us who rescue animals – 

They rescue us.  

The constant concern of Cedar’s flock

willing their baby pigeon to heal, to live.

Yet somehow knowing when it was time

to find a quiet spot,

no predators,

a safe, even makeshift, nest.  

In the Winter garden the crowds cheer for the Mother 

who killed her three infants when she heard an evil voice. 

We buried Cedar as the western world buries perhaps

its last light of reason.

Even now in the Winter Garden, pilgrims will keep hope alive.

Saint Catherine Labouré is a protector of pigeons, she grew up caring for hundreds of them. Spiritually her connection stems from her role in sharing the Miraculous Medal message, much like carrier pigeons delivering faithful messages.