Solace

Grief. Anger. Sadness. Confusion. Indecision. Stress. We all need respite. This week one of my precious pets died. A bird. One of a flock of 9 parakeets. I am heartbroken. It was unexpected. Sudden. She was fine. And then, she wasn't. It went quickly. Thank goodness for her. Swift and with mercy. At least I hope so.

I live with a flock. My own personal winged haven. I love them with all my heart. They bring me joy. But this week, sadness. 

As it turns out, not only do I love my home flock, I love the wild flock, too. Birds of every species, color, size, and season. I revel in discovering them hidden among the trees, in the parks, on a light post from the car window, on a power line singing their hearts out.  After a long day, a bad week, or just to get out and breathe the air, I venture to a park, take a walk, and bird watch. It centers me. I'm enthralled by these winged creatures. In awe. Something about them just speaks to me.

So, today, feeling sad at my loss, at the flock's loss, I spent some time at the park. And, behold, the spring migrants have begun to arrive. Gold Crowned Kinglets, Ruby Crowned Kinglets, Yellow-rumped Warblers. Flitting from tree to tree.  Daring in their spring colors, close enough to almost touch. I watched them for awhile.  Took a few photos. Walked some more. Then went back again for more.

I'm still sad. But, returning to my home flock, I tried to stay in the moment, suspend the grief.  For me, hope really is the thing with feathers. I adore them all. They bring me solace.

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