To love a sparrow

Early one morning as I sat upon a bench along the trail, a sparrow came and visit with me.  Flying from its lofty perch on high, it descended to a spot not too far from the reach of my hand.  Our gaze met, its head tilted quizzically. Basked in the morning glow, I was struck by the spectrum of brown that speckled across its feathers, something I have never quite noticed before. I was at once mesmerized, and there came upon me such an affection for this creature that decided to grace me with its proximity.  I was almost overwhelmed by the desire to reach out and touch it.

But that's the thing, how do you show love to a sparrow? There is no doubt in my mind that if I act upon my desire, I will spook it and make it take flight, breaking the already ethereal bond that seemed to have formed. So we just sat in silence; I willing myself to project a safe space and all the positive vibes I can muster; all the meanwhile savouring the experience. I wanted so badly to prolong that moment, and while it still stirred a pang when it finally did fly away, I came to appreciate why partings are such sweet sweet sorrows.

That day I realize something - sometimes in life, there are people whom we just can't hold on to, no matter how deeply we care and want for them to stay. All we can do it savour their presence, treasure the experience.  There are beauty and love that are not meant to be possessed but passed on.  All we can do, all that we are allowed to do, is to do our best to create a safe environment so that the people and the things that make us glad can stay for a little bit, get rest, and move on in their own time.  That is the epitome of unconditional love, of stewardship.

So, learn to sit quietly.  Be still and of such hospitable countenance that people will come to you.  Be there for them, and be prepared when they leave.  Some will return, some will not.  Life is bittersweet, and I won't have it another way.