Hungry

Cedar waxwing, Lake Simcoe.

When we were at a cottage on Lake Simcoe last week, I found a baby cedar waxwing in the grass. There was no nest above it, so it may have attempted flight and not made it very far. It wasn't able to fly or flee from my presence, though there was desire. Big ol' predator that I am. Careful not to touch it, I attempted to feed it a worm, but it wouldn't take it. Someone suggested that the mothers always chew and mush up the food before feeding it to the babes. I passed on that option and just watched for a while.

It was gone by the end of the day. I trusted from its abilities and not that of a cat.

The next day, it was back. This time it was on a nearby shrub. It seemed equally as unable to fly or flee from me. Yet, it was stronger and would occasionally hop to a nearby branch. It still wouldn't take any of my worms, but its mom was constantly providing food. The pre-chewed form of my offerings. The waxwing wouldn't take any of my food knowing I wasn't the source of its nourishment.

I couldn't help but think about a few things, ask a few questions. How often am I turning to other things that do not truly nourish? Food is good. Really, I'm hungry for purpose, value, and meaning. There is a lot that seemingly provide it for me. Success in my work. Speed on my bike. Physical challenges. The right group of friends. The right point of view on a particular topic. Clothes that accent and highlight my autumn complexion. (Or, am I a winter?) Whatever. None of them ever do it. Well, they do but only for a night. They pass until the next fix.

God nourishes.

I'll remember the waxwing for a while. I’ll watch where I’m looking for nourishment that is as solid as a Twinkie or Little Debbie. I'll remember to keep my brain, soul, and heart open to the food God gives. It may come from a friend or stranger who has words that may be a blessing direct from God. It may come from prayer, spending time with God. It may come in a song or a redemptive message in a good movie. Maybe it will come from sacrificing my time for something or someone more important than what I want at that moment.

Lots of ways and places like a yard where a little bird is making its way to fly.