Wild

There he was, taking a break from a morning of fishing…a beautiful osprey.

As I watched this amazing bird, I felt a connection to him as one of Earth’s beautiful creations. I recognize that I’ll never know him or his family or join him in his day. After all, he’s destined to be wild, never tamed.

As he disappeared down river, I honored him for his unique contribution to the web of life, certain that his existence is no less important than mine.

Charles Darwin once said, ‘The love for all living creatures is the most noble human attribute.’

I concur…

(Link to New Photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)

Unicorns

For a moment, she appeared to be dancing…a beautiful wood duck. As I watched her, I was reminded of a young girl I recently met on a trail. With her well-loved stuffed unicorn under her arm, she danced in circles around her father.

Brimming with excitement, the little girl inquired if I had seen any unicorns. I regretfully reported that I hadn’t yet, but I would keep my eyes open. I couldn’t help but grin at her innocent enthusiasm.

The experience remained with me for days. Something about the girl’s unbridled zest for life touched a forgotten part in myself…the part that knows pure joy and craves adventure.

How grateful I was for the reminder…

(Link to New Photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)

Ponderings

I was fascinated by this goldfinch feasting on thistle seeds. Back and forth he went from one plant to another. In his excitement, an occasional seed slipped from his beak. And I had a realization.

In his dining experience, this little bird was effortlessly contributing to the well-being of others. Some of the fallen seeds provided food for small creatures who discovered the bounty on the ground. Others planted themselves in the soil to become the thistles of next year.

As I watched the little bird, I had a wondering. How is my life contributing to the welfare of others? And what can I do differently to help forward life on our beloved planet?

Very big questions…inspired by a beautiful little bird.

(Link to New Photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)