Little Bird Laid To Rest

The bumble bee encounter had me buzzing with life’s renewal and the lightness of being that seems to surround me when that smell of spring is in the air.  But yesterday afternoon, when I returned home, I came across a little bird in the driveway.  I have always said that the animal kingdom brings me messages and this one is no exception.  Except I am not quite sure the meaning.

He looks peaceful so I can’t determine how or why the tiny bird is deceased.  (So, yes, I’ve arbitrarily decided it’s a he).  There are no signs of an abrupt attack.  Why he is in the driveway and not on the adjacent grass is curious to me as well.  Even though I did take a photo of him, it seemed too sad for me to post, so I chose another photo of a similarly looking bird today.

For me, he is a reminder that with life comes death and all that encompasses the in-between.  We learn these lessons as we grow and explore the meaning of our lives.  So many times we take for granted what is and forget that life is precious – to be enjoyed, to be shared with love and to be cognizant of that delicate balance between the past, the present and the unknown future.

I also feel that spiritually for me, it signifies the end and the preparation of a new beginning for the next chapter in my life.  Do you feel that way too?

I am not even sure what type of little bird he is – perhaps a sparrow?  I said a small prayer for him, gave thanks for his presence and interred him in the backyard by myself.  I wonder if he has any loved ones who worried when he didn’t return to the nest last night?  Is there a mama or partner bird who is mourning the loss of her love?

Be sweet today.  A gentle reminder to hug and love on those for whom you care so deeply.  We only have today, so take the gift of The Presents of Presence, not for granted, but with the deep understanding that resides in your heartlight.

Shine On!

xo

Roses For You!

“Don’t strew me with roses after I’m dead. 

When Death claims the light of my brow

no flowers of life will cheer me;

instead you may give me my roses now!”

~ Thomas F. Healey

I’ve always said that I’d prefer my flowers now and not on my casket.  So let me take this moment to tell you all in writing how I feel.  Not that I’m going anywhere soon (as far as I know), but when I found this rose photo and then the quote above, well, I just thought it was time to talk about it.

How do you feel about flowers?  Would you prefer to have some fresh flowers around the house now ~ cut flowers in a pretty vase or in your garden to enjoy while you’re alive ~ or flowers strewn across your casket after you are gone?  I am not trying to take away from anyone else’s traditions, this is just my own point of view here.

I want to enjoy the fragrance of sweet roses, lilacs, gardenias and honeysuckle now while I’m alive and able to smell their heavenly fragrance instead of having them go to waste when I’m dead.  I want to delight in the springtime daffodils, tulips and crocus as they brave the beginnings of the Springtime thaw from Winter.  I delight in the beauty and aroma of all flowers (with the exception of lilies whose smell makes me feel a bit sick).

How do you feel about flowers after you are gone?  Would you prefer to enjoy them while you are alive?  And/or do you imagine a casket festooned with flowers to go onto the next chapter of your journey?

What’s your favorite flower?

Just wondering…

Shine On!

xo

P.S.  Just an FYI, a small bouquet of fragrant pink roses for me will be fine after I’m gone.

P. P. S.  I’m not planning on leaving anytime soon though! ♥