An American Paradox
by Michael Doyle

It's always been so much the American way
That we do as we do not as we often say.
An example is found in our national bird,
Until recently, we revered it only in words.

While we drove to the edge of extinction,
We played up Bald Eagle's image with distinction.
While  our bird's fate was almost a done deal,
We made it the central figure of our Great Seal.

Majestic and efficient in their agility,
The eagle rules the air with its great ability.
Its powerful wings catch the air with might,
Gliding with minimal effort as if just right.

Our society nearly destroyed its nesting sites,
Even as we admired its survivors in its flight.
We encroached on the areas of their nesting needs
Until we became wise enough to leave these freed.

Still, we would talk about how the eagle would soar,
At the same time, their losses we would ignore.
In one instance, we praised their splendid majesty,
In the other, we would not give them any sanctuary.

Between DDT and the unwashed sea of humanity,
It seemed we would not allow them to live in dignity.
Until at last our wisdom's circle was chased around.
Nearly at total loss, common sense was found.

Clinging today from a lofty perch with a focused gaze
The Bald Eagle lives a hundred years' worth of days.
Blissfully, it seems unaware of our grave paradox.
America finally learns to live as it simply talks.

Soaring above in the wide and windy open skies,
Our bald eagle remains the symbol of us as it flies.
With a wingspan of up to nearly seven feet,
Long may the bald eagle symbolize freedom without defeat.

(c) January 17, 2026   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved