For the Birds

I’m not sure what it is I love so much about birds-their beauty, their flight, their presence. They are like little uninvited guests-that just show up to make you smile, and pause and feel as if you are part of something wonderful.

I know we all have our favorites-the cardinal, the chickadee, the hummingbird - but I think it’s important to give equal attention and love to the sparrow, the grackle the blue jay. Each just born to the fate that gave them their name and their colors and their call. I truly love them all as they add so much life and diversity to our backyard. But maybe not the Red-tailed hawk that sits on the pine branch above the birdfeeder waiting for his next meal.

 I can’t imagine how quiet the world would be without them-how empty the sky would feel-with just the sun and clouds. Each soaring little soul visiting briefly and then taking flight. I have many books identifying birds-it’s good to know their names and what they like to eat-but generally I believe birds should be experienced without too many words attached. Like stars and moonlight, somethings don’t need librettos in order enjoy them. They are there to help fill the space that exists between our eyes and our hearts.

 There is no sound sweeter than the morning chorus-the songs that welcome a new day. As we approach the start of spring, we can hear the melodies beginning to change. They sing a song of hopefulness-they usher in the light of a new day-they remind us to leave the night behind and start fresh. 

Birds flying together, dipping and tilting into the wind, catching the breeze so skillfully with their wings stretched is a sight that can take my breath away. We keep looking for miracles only to realize we are surrounded by them.