Birdwatchers' prayers

Paradise Kingfisher (markaharper1)

Birdwatchers are a breed apart.

While others are still sleeping, they are trudging though fields with binoculars in tow.  While others are watching TV, they are peering through windows at backyard feeders.  While others are tweeting, they are going for the real chirps.

And while others are saying traditional prayers, they can be found murmuring words like these:

Prayer is like watching

For the Kingfisher.

All you can do is

Be where he is likely to appear

And wait.

       (Ann Lewin)

My brothers, birds, you should praise your Creator very much and always love him; he gave you feathers to clothe you, wings so that you can fly, and whatever else was necessary for you.  God made you noble among his creatures, and he gave you a home in the purity of the air; though you

neither sow nor reap, he nevertheless protects and governs you without any concern on your part.

         (Saint Francis)  

O God!  O God!  This is a broken-winged bird and his flight is very slow – assist him so that he may fly toward the apex of prosperity and salvation, wing his way with the utmost joy and happiness throughout the illimitable space, raise his melody in Thy Supreme Name in all the regions, exhilarate the ears with this call, and brighten the eyes by beholding the signs of guidance…

            (Abdu'l-Baha)

Resources
S&P Weekly E-Newsletter, 4/11/13