Do you ever notice the lessons from the world around you? There is an abundance in nature for you to explore, and it’s free!

I mentioned the little birds I saw last week, that someone else saw too. It made me realise again that we are not alone. Every time you look at the sky, remember that other people are seeing it as well. As the birds group together, so do the people who watch them.

Every morning I hear the brave first bird calling. It doesn’t have a song, just a repeated chittering. It makes me smile; does it go first because it can’t sing? Is it like a conductor tapping his baton before the orchestra starts to play? If you feel unremarkable, remember that the first brave step can start a miraculous cascade of others.

Recently I looked out as a large starling perched above the bird feeder, intimidating the others from approaching. One brave little blue tit flew in and got a few seeds. Another one followed shortly after. The dark bird sat on. It got me thinking. Is there anything in your life like that bird? A fear, worry, sadness or dread? Can you escape it, or does it cast a shadow over everything?

Without a doubt, there are moments every day where my ‘dark bird’ looms over me. Some days I have the strength to be like that little bird and carry on regardless, but other days, tiredness lets darkness win. What we need is someone else to brave the dark bird with us. A friend perhaps, or a faith that the Father we trust is so much brighter and stronger than any black feeling we battle against.

Eventually, the starling flew away and there was a feeding frenzy for the other birds. When you have a better day, celebrate it. And remember, especially when you’re under the shadow, that there will always be better times.

I hope you can find the strength to carry on, despite the darkness you face. Look up at the sky and see the birds soaring, dipping and diving.

I hope you can let your heart join them.