The wrappings and the ribbon

Today it wasn't
a cardinal
that crossed my path
but an American goldfinch
not buff
but canary yellow

unmistakably male
first
alighting
on burdock
and then
pumping himself
into a pine

having
greeted the cardinal
in similar ways
in days gone by
I was prepared
for the surprise
of the wild canary
and paused
to take
in
this little gift
sure
to keep the ribbon

and the wrappings
with the image
and the feelings
tucked
into the pocket
of my anorak

safe with my notebook
there to trigger
my memory
were she forgetful
or stubborn
beyond
the forgivable
laziness
and Spanish onion skin

that is memory.