Birds

Dear Mom,

As the weather cools, (okay, so it's down right freezing now) birds flock to our backyard because of the small ponds and waterfalls. We also have large high windows on either side of the room, and on sunny days the birds must think they can fly right through to the other side. They are in for a big surprise when they hit head on into glass. Sometimes I’m startled hearing a big thump. I look out to see if they’ve picked themselves back up or if they’ve met their fate and moved onto another life.

The other week one plopped right in front of the door where I was sitting. My heart went out to the precious little thing. I didn’t know what to do. I felt rather strongly about not interfering with one’s lessons in life, and yet the pull to help one in need was as strong. Sometimes there’s a fine line. Inwardly I declared myself a vehicle for Spirit and asked God, “What should I do?”

Thoughts were running through my head. Should I call my husband? Should I get a box and pick it up and take it to the vet? Should I let it alone and whatever happens, happens? I calmed myself and heard, “Just give it love.” Yeah, that seems to be the best thing to do in any situation really. I stepped outside and observed its heavy panting. I gently petted it and sang HU. HU is a love song to God and while I sang I asked for guidance on what was best for the little bird.

I observed its beauty—the various colors of soft silk like feathers with bright yellow and orange tips on the end of its back wing. As soon as I asked God for help, the bird sat up. I couldn’t help myself and went inside and grabbed my camera and took a few pictures.

The bird’s panting lessened. I then went inside to get some breadcrumbs. I thought how silly that must be—hear eat a few crumbs right after you've nearly knocked yourself out to death. I’m sure the little thing was so scared with this gigantic person hovering over it. Could you imagine if something that big hovered over you?

I noticed the filter to our pond was clogged with leaves and decided since I was outside, I may as well unclog it. I told the little bird to take it easy, grabbed the strainer and pulled out some leaves. After I finished, I put the strainer back and the bird was gone. I was happy for the bird. I hollered, “Be sure and tell your friends to watch out for the window."

P.S. I told my husband the story and he agreed that it was probably the singing—the bird had to get away. My husband thinks I can't sing. Cute isn’t he?