This year was our first as empty nesters. We had two children in college. Now, we have a recent college graduate working away from home and trying to get established in a new career. Into this vacuum comes a cardinal family. Here is a picture of mother cardinal standing on the edge of the nest as one of her young has an open mouth eagerly waiting to be fed. All of this is occurring just outside our kitchen window. My wife’s maternal instincts are being stimulated keeping an eye on this young family just outside our window. We live on the edge of the “hundred acre wood.” We have lots of great creatures in our backyard including a three eared rabbit. There is always the fascination of new life and the eagerness to help another family with their young even if that family is winged.
I’m reminded of St. Francis preaching to the birds. I have prayed that animals would find a home in our yard and they have.
“My brother and sister birds, you should praise your Creator and always love him: He gave you feathers for clothes, wings to fly and all other things that you need. It is God who made you noble among all creatures, making your home in thin, pure air. Without sowing or reaping, you receive God’s guidance and protection.”–St. Francis of Assisi.” We’re not preaching to the birds. It seems they are preaching to us with their presence. Peace.
