The Wisdom of a Hummingbird

Not too long ago, I noticed a collection of hummingbirds hovering around a feeder outside my office. They buzzed and charged at each other, each vying for a spot at the fount. I directed my attention back to my work. A short time later, a spot suspended in the middle of the open doorway caught my eye. I turned to see a tiny hummingbird hanging limply from it’s beak which it had trapped within the screen door upon flying into it.

Very slowly I walked toward it, inwardly praying that it wouldn’t jerk it’s head or flap it’s wings. It looked so frail that any sudden movement might break it’s neck. I could see it breathing rapidly as I approached, but it made no movement. Gently, gently I applied pressure to the tip of it’s long, sharp beak until at last it was free. It zoomed away.

What a smart little bird! I felt so inspired by his courage. The next time I find myself in trouble, seemingly trapped by whatever accident or creation of mine, I will remember the wisdom of that hummingbird. Rather than thrashing about creating more misery, I’ll sit still, breathe and be willing to let the bigger forces at work in the universe to come to my aid.