day 167

failure to launch

a phoebe fledgling
fluttered in the rose garden
a failed first flight
her parents hovering close by 
‘til she found her wings and soared

a gentle prodding
is sometimes all that we need
for a leap of faith

 ~kat

Yesterday, there were three phoebe chicks in the nest over my garage side door light. Year after year I’ve watched a pair of phoebes build a nest under the eave of our house. The cycle of life commences. 

The laying of the eggs, one a day over several days. When the laying is done, the mother settles in for the long haul, perched over her precious brood, day after day, rain or shine. Her devoted mate tends to her every need, feeds her, stands vigil nearby, protecting his family. After only a few weeks the moment long awaited comes and the chicks emerge from their shells. Mom and dad spend their waking hours feeding these hungry featherless babies who are all mouth. They grow quickly until it’s time to fly free in a matter of a few more weeks. 

This morning I noticed that the nest was empty. Another brood joining the flock that returns every spring to our acre. I noticed though that the parents were still near, agitated and not at all happy to see me. Then I saw it. A lone fledgling on my front porch stairs near the roses fluttered as it looked at me while the mom and pop swooped around me. I was concerned little tyke was exposed where the crows frequented, so I moved it under cover on the wicker settee. Soon after the parents came over, I suspect to encourage it to spread its wings. When I checked a few hours later the little family had moved on. 

I have seen nestlings fail to survive on occasion and knew the sound of the parents mourning. (yes even tiny phoebe parents mourn the loss of their young who don’t survive.)  But today, the sky was blue and sunlit. And it was silent but for the soft rustle of wind through the trees.  I like to think that this little family is somewhere riding the wind. At least that’s my hope. 

It reminds me that all families are precious…every single family. Every single soul. It reminds me that life offers us opportunities every day to recognize this fact, to be kind, and sometimes we are honored to help too. It costs nothing to lend a hand…to show kindness. May we seek those opportunities and rise to the occasion when presented with them. 

much love, peace, and glimmers to you! 

~kat

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A Tanka / Haiku Combo. 🙂