Nancy's Weekly Perk Message

When Birds of a
Feather Flock Together

This week we have noticed the geese are gathering and beginning to fly over in small groups. No doubt, they are getting organized for their journey south. Along with the cooler temperatures and the colourful leaves, that distinctive honking sound in the air leaves no doubt that fall has arrived. I’m always a bit sad to see them go, but I also marvel at what they know and how they work together.

There has been a lot written about the wisdom of geese and how they stick together for the good of the flock. Did you know that the V formation they fly in allows them to fly 71% further as a group than each goose could fly on its own? The science tells us that the motion of their wings creates an uplift for the bird following behind. What I find most impressive though, is their “congregational care.” When a goose gets sick and falls out of formation, two other geese will accompany it to the ground and stay with it until it can fly again, or until it dies. It is simply amazing how they care for each other, and the journey they can accomplish together as a flock.

This week we have been talking about faith the size of a mustard seed. Even faith that starts out small can give us the courage to do great things. The stories of the geese remind me of that mustard seed analogy. Perhaps the geese have a lesson for us, too. It is amazing after all, what we can accomplish when we work together, and when we care for one another.

This Season of Creation, I am grateful for the wisdom of the geese.

Peace and joy
Nancy