[Verse 1] Morning light spills on the old porch swing, Coffee cup steam, still wearin' your ring. World's been quiet since the day you left, Till a flash of crimson stole away my breath. [Pre-Chorus] Feathers glowed like a dashboard flame, Little red miracle whisperin' your name— [Chorus] When that cardinal sings, I hear your voice, Soft as “I do” on our weddin' choice. Every bright note tells me you're near, In a red-winged hymn sayin' "I'm still here." [Verse 2] Winter wind howls down the garden gate, But he keeps landin' like he's runnin' late. Hops on the rail where your roses grew, Drops a seed of courage in a heart turned blue. [Pre-Chorus] I close my eyes, let the sorrow mend, Feel your arms wrap 'round on the southern wind— [Repeat **Chorus**] [Bridge] (soft—fiddle & pedal-steel) Maybe angels fly in colors bold, Paintin' hope on wings against the cold. And if love can rise on a winter sky, Then goodbye's just another lullaby— [Chorus – big, full-band] When that cardinal sings, I feel your grace, Bright red beacon in a grey-washed place. Every sweet chirp wipes one more tear, In a heaven-sent song sayin' "I'm still here." [Tag Outro] (gentle, solo guitar + fiddle) Yeah, the cardinal sings… your love appears, And I know I'm not alone through the years.
