Frantically beating wings caught my attention. Looking pathetically vulnerable, a young robin struggled against the base of the tree. He was obviously trying to figure out how to return to the nest that he had just fallen from.
I was concerned as I watched this young fledgling’s battle. Was he really prepared for life outside of the nest? Would a barn cat discover him before he “found” his wings? In his bird-mind, did he feel betrayed or abandoned that he had been forced away from the only place he had ever known?
Did he realize that he was created for the open skies rather than for a cramped nest made of dead grasses, weeds, and sticks?
Minutes later I experienced the joy of seeing my young robin friend discover his legs and turn his back on the tree. He began to explore the yard, finding that his world was larger than he thought.
I smiled and left him to his adventures.
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Has your life ever taken an unexpected turn that left you longing for what once was?
I’m sure it has.
I wonder if God watches us with anticipation during these times? Is he smiling, knowing the good we are about to discover even as we are struggling over what we think we’ve lost? Does our struggle reveal his unique design to free us into the purpose for which he created us?
What protection does God place around us in that vulnerable spot between where we’ve been and where he is taking us? What is his purpose for us in this place of transformation and growth?
_
I returned to check the robin’s progress. He was now walking around with confidence, although not using his wings. Still not fully understanding his purpose.
But then he showed that he understood enough of his true identity to help others learn theirs. He and I both saw his nest-mate fall from the tree and hit the ground with a thud. My robin made a bee-line to his sibling. The result? His sibling did not waste a single moment looking back at the nest he’d fallen from. Rather he followed his more experienced robin-brother. And immediately they walked away from the tree.
Away from the past.
Preparing for the skies.
Together.
When I’ve had those “unexpected turn” moments, I do tend to look back with longing (or maybe even kick and scream a little!). But looking back on those moments, I realize they were defining moments that helped shape where I am today. As hard as those times were, I wouldn’t want to go back to where I was before them. I’m also amazed at how God has used the twists and turns in my life to allow me to walk beside other people who are going through something similar.
I like your comment that you wouldn’t want to return to where you were before the rough times. It is so tough to remember that when we are in the middle of the challenge. But still so true.
I love the analogy of our Father watching over us as we learn to stretch our legs and use our wings as we discover our purpose! It is so comforting to be reminded that He is there- and humbling to think that we can actually bring a smile to His face…Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Yes! Thinking of His delight watching us… wow! 🙂 Thanks for your comments Cathy.