Snow geese are visitors to the Northwest, winging their way down from the Arctic in search of more hospitable winter weather. I was surprised to see this beautiful snow goose among the Canada geese. Her bright white feathers were such a contrast to her companions’ dusky brownish gray feathers.
I wondered how she came to be with a flock of geese unlike herself. Perhaps she lost her way, or was injured or sick, unable to keep up with her flock. At the moment, she appeared healthy and content to be with her host family.
As I watched the geese feed, I had a thought. Despite how different she looked from the tribe, they had welcomed her. Though her feather garb was unlike theirs, and her customs unique to her own flock, the Canada geese had accepted this lovely snow goose. Maybe she even spoke in a different goose dialect. But despite all her differences, they treated her as family.
Perhaps the Canada geese have embraced a concept that we humans struggle with. Maybe they instinctively recognized that the snow goose was more like them than different. And that it’s important to lend a helping hand. And there is enough for all, and a place for everyone.
I appreciate the encouragement from the natural world…
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