The Bird Life Cycle

It has been almost half a year since I last posted. Let me resume by sharing an interesting observation as well as a lovely encounter with a bird and its family recently. It happened when I first noticed a pretty bird flying at my home backyard. Soon, a nest was built on the branches of my curry leaf tree. It chose a perfect spot to lay its eggs. After they were laid and eventually hatched, the mother watched at a close distance, probably on a lookout for intruders. It cared for her young in accordance with the natural instinct of a mother and was prepared to defend and protect them.

It was fascinating to see how she went about feeding her young. I was especially inspired to witness the special bonding between them. While the mother continued to care for her young, I had to leave the scene for a few days for an overseas trip. The thoughts of that unique relationship remained with me while I was away.

Upon my return, I was thrilled to see the rapid and steady growth of the nestling. However, I remained puzzled on the apparent absence of the other sibling. I reached out to feel the soft feathers. It was amazing!

After a few minutes, I noticed its mother perched on a wall, next to the tree, staring at us. I thought the moment has come for me to bid goodbye to this beautiful chick that was learning to flap its wings. Though there was a sense of reluctance, I figured out that mother knows best what is good for her young. I prayed that they will continue to fly freely and not be caged up somewhere. There are precious lessons concerning the uniqueness of life associated with this encounter. I shall treasure them in my heart. I hope you are also inspired by this sharing.

After this encounter, I have occasionally looked up to the roost, wondering whether I would have the good fortune of witnessing the next season.

Resolutions for the New Year (Revised Version)

Come, gorgeous Red Dragonfly

Rest on this hand of mine.

Let me take a close shot of you
And fly, fly away, as you will.

The 1st day of the New Year unveils one of the most profound mysteries as well as the beauty of the insect world. I am thrilled that I was able to fulfill the hope of one of my friends when he requested me to take a photograph of a Red Dragonfly for his project. I tried for about a year, though I must confess that I had not deliberately ventured into the woods to look for it. Incidentally, I noticed this gorgeous Red Dragonfly hovering at my car porch area yesterday. Armed with a camera, I approached it cautiously being conscious of the rare probability of obtaining a good shot. I took some. They are just OK shots. But early this morning, I saw my "friend" again. I moved closer towards it and offered my hand for it to rest on it. I captured that moment without having to capture the insect (into captivity). Bravo! That "connecting" moment was simply amazing!

As we begin this year, many will take the opportunity to make new resolutions. What are yours? One of mine is to capture/treasure special moments with people with the understanding that true relationship sets us free to enjoy the presence of others as well as allow them to take flight, anytime too. What are your thoughts?