“Glory to God in the highest and on earth PEACE and goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14).
As a devout Roman Catholic, I dwell on the rich symbolism of my religious faith the wisdom spoken in the New Testament. There is the great commanment that is the golden rule to our neighbors ".. do unto others what you would have want them to do unto you."
And what does that rule have to do with my feeders? Well,plenty of symbolism there. Like the gift of the Christ child, we reciprocate with gifts to each other in whatever form. My feeders is my gift to birders and strangers, and neighbors who come to watch birds. And birds gift us with their beauty of color and personality; Or just being in the presence of birds and the surrounding solitude is nature's gift to us as well, How or what we receive out of our enjoyment of the scenery depends on the individual.
Since the feeders been up,it warms my heart to see a multitude of people from the elderly to little children delight in those feeders. The joy it bring is immeasurable.
But its important that we not keep our enjoyment and delight to ourselves,to hold our Sense of wonder within.We should share it ! How we do this? Simply. We keep each other company,with respect -regardless of skill level-- and converse warmly about happenings and bird stories,however it goes. But its equally important to be humble.
One of the drawbacks since birding become so competitive is the danger of elitism and egotism. Those without knowing it can become innately self focused, exclusive and downright petty: we start looking for the high clouds instead of the good earth below where beginner birders and ordinary people!e live. That's what " Good will " means in the Christmas refrain spoken by those angels that divine holy night. We treat each other warmly and respectfully and we will be remembered well after we leave this good earth. We'll have peace as well when we show compassion to our fellow beings and neighbors. More people will remember compassion kind hearted people than unkind folks.
On this Christmas Eve,lets remember that sentiment to be kind and respectful to all.
Merry Christmas everyone.
