This little buddy landed on my shoulder one morning, and I was surprised he stayed long enough to snap a picture. He seemed content and not afraid as I kept real still. It felt good and I liked having him there and the connection no matter how fleeting. Makes me wish I could hold onto the moment longer. 

Those times are precious to me as they are happening now and as I look back on them. But isn’t that how life is – unpredictable? We never know how each day will unfold. It’s a gift – all of it, the good and the bad, and as I get older, I’m even more conscious of that. It’s a choice really, how we see it and respond. And as I look at this picture, I’m reminded how much there is to still see and enjoy right there in front of my eyes.  

I’m glad there are stages in life and it’s funny, as I look at old pictures over time. You would think we were different people as little girls and boys, compared to our teens and 20’s, mid-life, and (if fortunate) the golden years. Birds don’t change as dramatically as that, nor other wildlife, that I know of. If they get older, there’s a change but not where they look so different that you wouldn’t recognize them. Maybe it’s because they’re not as protected when enduring the elements, and most don’t live as long. 

I remember I could feel this little guy’s feet as he moved and shifted. He was close enough to where I could see his face as he twitched his head back and forth. Maybe, he was somewhat puzzled by this big object near him. Then, he finally flew off. So tiny, delicate and light as a feather. I marvel how they take off in flight without hardly any effort. Wouldn’t it be fun to launch and fly like that? 

Hubby and I watch all types of fowl, insects and critters in our backyard, and it gives me appreciation of life and its different forms. We don’t see all the makings of it on the ground and in the sky – the intricacies and interactions. Only a small portion of it as they enter our world. What does their home look like perched up in a tree or under a bush? What do we look like to them? Do they feel things like we do or is it us trying to apply human emotions? Some things must be similar as they care for their young and compete for territory like we do. But on a different vibration? I have no idea but it’s beautiful with what I do see. 

I look forward to more moments like that. You never know what each day will reveal. Maybe another little buddy will come to visit again. I hope so. 

Pat from the ‘ol kitchen table