A few weeks ago, I inadvertently wandered too close to this wren’s nest. She loudly screeched at me to let me know I wasn’t welcome. I apologized and quickly moved on. I was amazed by the wren’s courage. She was completely undaunted by my size, and ready to take me on to protect her chicks. This tiny wren didn’t play it small.
As I thought about this brave wren, I remembered an exchange I witnessed between a father and his young daughter in the forest. They were standing at the edge of a shallow stream, several feet below the path I was walking on. The girl wanted to cross a log to a small island on the other side of the stream.
Without hesitation, the father stepped into the shallow water, and boosted his daughter onto the log. He held her hand as she slowly walked, offering her gentle encouragement. As the girl stepped onto the island, she laughed with delight.
By supporting his daughter, this father was preserving the girl's innate courage. She had not learned to be afraid. She easily took a risk, and was confident that she had support. Like the wren, she naturally knew how to play it big.
So the next time I hesitate to take a chance, I’ll remember the little wren and the young girl.
I appreciate the inspiration...
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