What is the theme of poem The Christmas Sparrow by Billy Collins?

In his poem "The Christmas Sparrow," Billy Collins explores the themes of hope, resilience, and the power of the natural world to inspire and teach. The speaker in the poem is drawn to a sparrow that appears in his yard during the winter, a time of hardship and harsh weather. The sparrow manages to survive despite its small size and exposed position, clinging to the bird feeder and enduring long nights. Collins uses this as a metaphor for the power of hope and the resilience of life, even in challenging times. The sparrow also represents a spiritual symbol of hope and faith during the Christmas season. Through vivid imagery, the speaker finds solace and inspiration by contemplating the sparrow's persistence and strength, suggesting that even in difficult circumstances, there is still hope and beauty to be found in life.