I watched this feeding behaviour of a pair of Bulbuls in our garden a few days ago, which made me ponder on the way they relate to each other ! The feeding time for them is often like this, being together and taking turns to feed ! They pause to allow the other to feed! It is not self driven, but being mindful of each other!
This relational aspect stands out with some species of birds.
Yesterday, I met a senior citizen who is older than me, who was on his way to the local school in the late afternoon to walk back home with his grandson when he finished for the day. He travelled back to his school days. He mentioned about a habit of teachers seventy five years ago. The teachers would visit the homes of students in the village. He remembered how few teachers visited his home when he did not go to school due to illness for a week. He referred to teachers as those whose attention was on students. Some teachers stayed in the class room for students to meet with them for any conversation or clear doubts on the subjects taught on that day, after the school hours.
It was then I recalled the occasion when some teachers visited my home from the school. They came to bring encouragement and stay connected with my parents.
Some teachers left impressions with me which have lasted because they were interested in our learning and formation! I remember how the first hour was spent each day in the class for conversations. The teacher took time to give every student an opportunity to talk about any matter. In so doing, the students also stayed connected with thirty-five others in the class.
In his mid eighties, this senior citizen lives with pleasant memories of his teachers and the school experience.
The Bulbuls have a relational habit! Some teachers in the school where that senior citizen and I went to, focussed on our formative process.
During the two telephone conversations this week, I realised how people live longing to have conversations! In a digitalised environment, people look for human interface and conversations.
The interest to stay in touch with others got even more activated following this conversation with this senior citizen!
M.C.Mathew(text and photo)
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