Oh Crap...

Do birds freak you out like they do me? Yep, I am NOT a fan! Or should I say the old me was not a fan, but in my defense, I have good reason.

Until recently, I joked the top of my head was marked with a target, seen only by our feathered friends that said, “poo here.” And let me tell you, poo they did. On more than one occasion I felt the familiar soft splat, knowing instantly what it was, yet my reflexes, quicker than my thinker, sent my hand straight to the target. The feeling of the warm goo between my fingers escalated my detest for these small, winged monsters and as a result, any time I spent outdoors I was on high alert, ready to run if an attack was close by. And I should tell you, this was the only time I ever ran. Needless to say, I’ve spent my life with my eye on the sky, strategically planning out my routes when on foot.

Three years ago, I began a walking journey beyond my weekly trips to the grocery store. It was official, according to my bloodwork, I needed (or should I say my body needed) more than a walk from the parking lot to the aisles of necessities noted on my list. These walks were new to me, they were out in nature, with sounds and smells unfamiliar to my nostrils. I became addicted, putting more miles on my sneakers than I ever imagined.

Nature consists of trees, lots and lots of these grand masters that look over and protect their territory. However, I soon learned that birds build their homes in trees (imagine that). As I walked, they zoomed from tree to tree, taunting me. I don’t like to be messed with, so I began to dare them to leave their mark on me. Then my heart began to soften, as did theirs and I believe that target disappeared.

In time, a transformation of my being began to happen. Something comparable to the change between Bruce Banner and the enormous green being he turns into when there is a shift in his circumstances. Only for me it’s more of a shift in my soul, not my physical body…although that began to shift as well. My walks became more than just a walk in the park. I began to feel I was conforming with the park. Not only did my fear of the creatures in the sky begin to dissipate, but I began to feel like Snow White, responding to the serenades of my winged friends with gratitude…sometimes singling along with them. I talk to the birds, the trees, the squirrels, the leaves, even the bugs on the ground. Each has a purpose; I see that now.

So, birds, I love them now! And I am even brave enough to stop and watch in awe from my “perch” on the ground. The way they glide through the air reminds me of watching dolphins darting through the ocean. That’s it! Birds are the dolphins of the sky. But more than that, I’m a huge fan of the natural symphony they perform, a chorus from feathered voices. I am entertained by their songs and can even recognize the different melodies each species brings to the number. I’m, no WE, are incredibly lucky to have front row seats to these beautiful concerts…and to think they are free.

Like my fear of birds, my life overall is evolving. I’m reminded of the process when writing a book. Version 1 (V1) of my story, my legacy, is currently in the editing process. I’m proud of that version because it has helped shape me into the person I am today. However, much like the book I wrote, it needs some tweaks to be even better. So far, I’m much happier with version 2 of my story. It has more heart, more emotion, (if that’s possible) more soul. This version is more open minded, more authentic, and closer to my Creator. This version dances to drums and hugs trees, without concern what others may think. This version is love based, not fear based. When the editing is finished, I have a feeling that this version is going to have a result like my book about my journey with my son. Yep, I believe it will also become a #1 International Best Seller. Fingers crossed!

I don’t dare to say it aloud for fear of jinxing things, so let’s just say this… I can walk freely outside without fear and guess what? I haven’t had to wash my hands for over two years now and least to remove white, wet, goo.

Chirp chirp...