Lenten Reflections #27
While driving to work yesterday, I had the news on for background noise. I scarcely listen as bad news is just SO bad. Like every day, I waited for the traffic and weather reports, which, like laundry, always show up about every three minutes.
As I crawled along in traffic, the long, sharp cheep of a finch came through the speakers. As a representative of most people over 50 who watch birds…so many birds, I reacted to the chirping like Pavlo’s dog, poised, ears perked.
The story shifted to one about birds using cigarette butts to build their nests.
Here’s what they said: For years, sparrows and finches have been using cigarette butts to build their nests. They gather them methodically, like a mason lays brick, one at a time, placing them carefully as they watch their home grow. The birds specifically place the used cigarettes next to their incubating eggs, with their little chicks waiting to peck their way out.
Why?
Turns out, these brilliant birds have figured out that the chemical ingredients in the butts repel invasive parasites and other insects from their nests, giving their fledglings a stronger immune system.
Amazingly, birds across the world, including New York City, the Galapagos Islands, Europe, and Mexico, are all on the same page. They figured out a way to not only recycle cigarette butts, but also protect their precious little chicks.
What I learned:
What I learned: Isn’t it amazing how birds all over the world can agree on something, while our world feels so chaotic? Maybe it’s because they think of others instead of just themselves. Let’s follow the lead of the finches of the world and try to take care of our children first.
Thanks for joining me.
I’m so glad you’re here,
Lucretia
runonmom.com 