I was thinking about baby birds last night. They stay all cozy and warm under their parents protection. Their every need is provided for in the security of the nest. They are comfortable and well fed. That is until the parents are compelled by an innate drive to push them out. There comes a time when the parents just know it's time for them to fly. How do they do this? Well basically it's forced (ready? Mommy's gonna give you a big push). The baby bird also has an innate knowledge that, when put to the test (fall to the ground and die or fly) come as second nature.
Isn't this kind of the scenario with our children. They cannot stay with us forever, although I guess some do try. For the average young adult, there comes a time when they want to fly, be independent, make it on their own. Usually around the same time, parents also sense that compelling to make sure that these young people learn to fly. Some jump out willingly, others need a little nudge, while some just have to be pushed. Hopefully the result is the same, they fly. Oh, they may flap, flitter, flip and fall along the way, but isn't that what we all did?
My baby bird-the last one-will be taking flight today. Off on an exciting journey into the next season of life. He goes willingly, with a desire to finish his education. Momma bird is ready (or at least I think I am, time will tell). I am excited to see him fly, hopefully with some pit stops at home along the way. This is a new season for me as well. The last time I lived alone I was 22 years old, and believe me, that was a while ago. I will miss the car out front when I return home, someone to take the trash out and empty the dishwasher, my Falling Skies and Walking Dead watching buddy, among other things. My sink will stay clean, my food bill will shrink, my TV will wonder what happened to the person that always watched it, and the animals will have to get used to being fed later (JoJo's a morning person and I, well I like my sleep). Most of all though, I'm proud of all my baby birds who are out there flying. My prayer is that they would like the Psalmist says, be hidden in the Shadow of His wings.
Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 17:8
