Sometimes, when I haven’t slept or the news of the world, already bad, suddenly becomes much worse, the weight of belonging here is a heaviness I can’t shake. But then I think of the glister of a particular morning in springtime. I think of standing in the sunshine and watering the butterfly garden, which is mostly cultivated weeds punctuated by the uncultivated kind that come back despite my pinching and tugging. I think of the caterpillars on the milkweed plants, unperturbed by the overspray, and the resident red-tailed hawk gliding overhead, chased by a mockingbird and three angry crows, and the bluebird standing on the top of the nest box protecting his mate, who is inside laying an egg. I think of that morning—not even a morning, not even an hour—and I say to myself, Be an egg. Be a mockingbird. Be a weed.
~ Margaret Renkl, “Be A Weed” in Late Migrations: A Natural History of Love and Loss
Notes:
- READ this Book. Highly recommended. See NPR’s Book Review here: A Perfect Summer Book, ‘Late Migrations’ Reminds Us Of Life’s Beauty And Fragility
- Post Title & Inspiration: Aldous Huxley: “It’s dark because you are trying too hard. Lightly child, lightly. Learn to do everything lightly. Yes, feel lightly even though you’re feeling deeply. Just lightly let things happen and lightly cope with them.”
and like that, you are once more freshly aware of the real world. you will survive just like tha that weed that refuses to go just yet.
Yes. Exactly.
Thanks for what sounds like another stellar recommendation, DK. Into the queue it goes. I was actually watching a pair of Sandhill Cranes stroll around the yard yesterday and thinking, “Life is so simple and straight forward for those guys. They focus on what’s most important and right in front of them, and they enjoy the day.” Message received.
Signal is clear.
Clear signal. Received.
Gratitude. Rises.
Day. Brightens.
Thank you.
That’s it Louise!
Perfection. Overwhelmed? Step back and be with nature… It has a way of centering you.
And your Zeke too on your walks!
Yes. Speaking of which. I have promised myself a daily with him… Planning on getting myself centred regularly. Like, daily (freezing rain days, excepted).
sounds like a plan
This is perfect for the beginning of a new year, when we have another chance to get it right. Happy New Year to you and your family, David, and to my fellow followers!
Thank you Carolann! You too!
I am a ‘weed’ – have taken note! Had to smile at ‘watering the butterflies garden’ and I just saw the little flutterbys growing on thin stems, waving gently in the morning breeze, letting their charge getting their wings…. but more likely I’m just silly again.
What a charming book! Thanks for sharing.
I can feel that this is your kind of book
I just read this book and it is beautiful. Glad you are sharing it with everyone.
It is. Thanks Sherrie.
Precisely why blogging works, u loose track of a feed, come across it again and then the message that inspires,
Per ardua ad astra
I just have to say, David, that I am always so grateful when I come over and catch up with your blog. You find the most heart-touching and inspiring pieces to share. It’s warm and wonderful here at your place.
Ahhh Vicki. Thanks so much. Really appreciate you stopping by and sharing your kind thoughts. Hope you are doing well.