The Return

As I stepped on a path yesterday, I noticed that something was different. Emanating from the trees was a symphony of chirps. The tree swallows had returned from their winter migration, and I was thrilled to see them.

As they darted among the trees, their blue iridescent wings shone in the sunlight. I watched them inspect the knotholes looking for the perfect nesting sites, and I thought about the long, arduous journey these little birds make twice a year.

How do they survive that grueling trip?

So many birds migrate, with the driving force being access to food. Along the way they pollinate plants, disperse seeds, keep ecosystems in balance, and recycle nutrients back into the Earth…these small creatures contribute mightily to the health and well-being of us all.

But to me, birds are so much more than their practical contributions to the planet. They inspire and surprise and dazzle, imparting a sense of wonder and freedom.

As I delighted in the flashes of color in the trees, I smiled.

And I say welcome back...

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

Reliance

Gliding over the wetlands, he searched for his next meal…a beautiful hawk.

As I watched him rest for a bit, I had a realization. His days are filled with challenges, yet he gracefully moves forward. And I wondered...what fuels his persistence?

I suspect that he relies on an unseen force. A divinely creative energy that breathes us all and lovingly forwards life in every moment.

In these challenging times, I find myself relying upon this force more and more for wisdom and inspiration and strength and resilience. Always there.

With a deep sense of gratitude, I took a breath and wandered on…

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

Goodness

I had never seen that before…an egret turned upside down, an umbrella of feathers covering him. As I watched him preen, I had a thought.

Like the egret, the world also appears to be upside down. And I realized that fear has been a close companion lately as I hold my breath, unsure of what will happen next.

And I remembered something that wise beings have suggested. It’s our thoughts that create our reality. If we focus on fear, fear will expand. If we focus on goodness, goodness will expand.

And I had an aha. It’s possible to remain aware of worldly events, while also intentionally focusing on the loving kindness all around us.

In the last week, I’ve observed a myriad of kind and loving acts…a man laughing with his child, a young boy petting his puppy, a woman paying for a police officer’s coffee, a teacher comforting a hurt child…the list is endless.

So much goodness, and kindness and love…a reality designed and destined to expand.

And with that knowing, I took a breath and wandered on…

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