This past week, I went for a short hike to a local park and was treated to the sight of our resident heron. This persistent and resilient hunter is a frequent guest at the base of the falls. It’s patience and skill never fails to impress me. I mean, that water is freezing! Not to mention the current and slippery rocks, but that sucker will defy it all and win its dinner.

To show my respect, I’ve crafted a short poem about what I’ve learn from this winged wonder.
Standfast against lifeās undertows
its frigid currents froth with rabid circumstance
eroding some foundations
burying dreams with oozing muck
Cement your grip against the blows
ignore the quips and bites of those afraid to dance
steel away past frustrations
do not count on simple luck
Dig in and eye the prize below Ā
penetrate the roiling surface and take a chance
the waves hide liberation
Heron you render me awestruck
Such image Mark..and I love this wonderful poem you wrote.
Anita
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Thanks, Anita. š
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Wow. Mark. Awesome poem. It feels epic. And a great photo and beautiful inspiration. š
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Thanks, Diana.
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The bird is as gorgeous as the poem you’ve written about it:-)
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Thank you. š
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I too am awestruck with the heron. Their strength is incredible seeing those skinny legs. Beautiful and perfect poem, Mark.
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Thanks, Lauren. They are amazing birds. š
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I’ve never been around a heron but who knew they were so smart. I’m off to find one (or at least a picture of one!)
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I hope you have the privilege of seeing one in action. It’s really quite amazing! Thanks, Jacqui. š
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I love this poem, Mark. Don’t you just love when nature inspires you. Well done! š
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I certainly do, Yvette. I couldn’t resist this tribute. Thanks!
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How true, Mark. Cement your grip against the blows. Great poem.
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Herons are such great examples of this. Thanks Miriam.
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I see some herons and other birds by our nearby lake. I love watching them. Nice post, Mark.
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Thanks. š
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Herons are my favourite, so you know I love this poem!
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Thank you! They are fast becoming mine, as well.
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Beautiful piece, Mark. Thanks so much for sharing! š
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Thanks, Natalie. š
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Hi Mark, this is a lovely poem. Beautiful imagery.
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Thanks, Robbie. š
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A lovely poem and tribute to the great Heron, Mark!
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Thanks Jan. I think the tribute was overdue.
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A terrific poem, Mark. I too have been impressed with the skills of the Heron.
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Thanks John.
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Gorgeous picture and I enoyed the accompaning poem!
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Thanks, Denise. š
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Fantastic poem, Mark. With those spindly legs, it’s amazing the water doesn’t wash him away!
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Thanks, Jill. Yes, they are incredibly strong birds.
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It is amazing that these birds survive even harsh weather. I liked this line: “burying dreams with oozing muck”
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Thanks Frank. They are one tough bird, for sure.
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I’ve never before seen a heron standing in rushing water!
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It’s quite a sight, Liz. They are amazing hunters.
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The ones I see always seem to be experiencing a Zen moment. Looks are deceiving, eh?
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It certainly is. š
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An excellent poem, Mark. It narrows the lens and brings much into sharp focus.
I particularly love the line “ignore the quips and bites of those afraid to dance.”
It’s amazing what birds, nature, and animals can teach us.
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Thank you, Mae. I agree, we can learn so much from nature.
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Most certainly quite an amazing animal. Iām always fascinated with animals that hunt, therefore my love of cats and hawks…lovely poem Mark, you captured well the moment. All the best,
F.
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Thank you, Francisco. I have nothing but respect for that bird.
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Absolutely!
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I really like that the heron inspired you to write a poem about it — and a fitting poem to celebrate this resilient hunter.
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Thanks, Dave. I feel it was long overdue.
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