Begin Again

Such determined expressions…two baby swallows peering out of their tree window. Within their first month of life, they’ll leave the nest to begin their bird adventures.

In that moment, I felt a bit envious of these two beautiful creatures. Their lives are just beginning, their story not yet revealed. No history, no scars…only possibilities.

And I had a thought. Wise beings suggest that in every moment is the opportunity for a fresh start. No matter what has transpired in the past, now is all that matters.

Perhaps it’s time for my own new story. Maybe one more fulfilling and inspiring than I can possibly imagine.

I suspect it’s time to look deep within to uncover the first glimmerings of this new saga.

My heart smiled at the thought of a brand new life…inspired by two baby birds.

(Link to Photo Gallery: wandernature.com/new-photos)

The Best

He appeared to be smiling, this beautiful dark-eyed junco, as he happily searched for seeds and enjoyed the sunshine.

I suspect animals spend their days relishing the delightful moments of life, with no concern about what calamities could befall them.

I long to live that way. Trusting that I’m taken care of, with no need to anticipate or overprepare for challenges…to expect the best, rather than fear the worst.

How much more time and space I would have to experience delight and joy in my day.

And what a profound shift it would be…inspired by a beautiful little bird.

(Link to Photo Gallery: wandernature.com/new-photos)

Pure Enjoyment

I heard him before I saw him…a beautiful song sparrow. Perched on a fence post, he was singing his heart out.

As I listened to his lovely melody, I had a thought. Charles Darwin theorized that birds sometimes sing simply for their own enjoyment, and we now know that’s true. I suspected this little bird was delighting in his musical interlude.

And in that moment, I, too, stopped to simply enjoy. Fresh air, a cool breeze, beautiful shades of green, the sounds of late spring...I exhaled for the first time in a while.

And as the little bird flew off to his next adventure, I smiled, grateful for the shared moments of pure enjoyment…

(Link to Photo Gallery: wandernature.com/new-photos)