One of the interesting things I like to do when I have time, is to trace a bird while it is on its search for food.
In the words of Jesus of Nazareth, even the birds would be provided for because God cares for them! That is what I noticed while watching this bird on its expedition!
What caught my attention is the diligence with which the bird was waiting to sight a worm! It stays still till it watches a movement close by and flies in to catch the fly or the worm. I noticed it to be successful with each of its attempt.
Although finding food is an instinct, the way it does is full of practical 'wisdom'.
I happened to read little about bird behaviour of searching for food. A bird searches for food in its own territory that it is familiar with. Usually birds are in groups of two or more while hunting for food. The birds who have their offsprings, first find food for the the young ones waiting in the nest, before they eat on their own. When on finding food, it announces it to the others by the bird song.
Most birds therefore are 'social' in behaviour. They care and provide for each other. What they find does not become an exclusive possession, but gets shared.
It used to be that way in the pre-industrial revolution era among humans as well. The community kitchen provided food while all laboured in the farm to meet the common needs.
Forty five years back, in my village where we live now, when the paddy was harvested, a portion of the field was left to be harvested by the neighbour in gratitude for being a friendly companion. It was common to share the produce of the farm with the neighbours as an act of gratitude for friendship. The 'barter system' was another way people met each other's needs.
During this week, when the followers of Jesus of Nazareth recollect the passion of Jesus and His crucifixion, daleth and resurrection, the one message that would be talked about would be the self giving nature of Jesus.
It is in giving we receive!
M.C.Mathew(text and photo)
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