As I looked closer, I noticed this lovely goldfinch perched among the thorns on a thistle plant. I’ve read that plants develop thorns to protect themselves from insects. As the little bird gathered seeds, he appeared unfazed by the sharp protrusions.
As I continued walking, I had a thought. We humans have our own version of thorns…occasional sharp words and attitudes that arise when we’re afraid or hurt.
What a gift it is when we can forgive each other’s thorniness and see beyond our flaws. And like the goldfinch, appreciate the lovely blossoms emerging among the spikes.
Seeing the best in everyone…something to aspire to.
(Additional photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)