Nature's Song

Today is was determined to find something to clear my cluttered mind, so I  decided to tackle a long overdue project- cleaning up the backyard. It was time to clear out the mess fall/winter left behind. I had beds to clear, huge piles of dead leaves to rake, and soil to prepare for new plantings.

Instead of plugging the earphones into the IPod, I decided to let nature sing her spring song. The birdsong was interrupted by an occasional squirrel digging around, or a plane or car going past. The sound of the leaves rustling in the breeze was soothing. The warm sun on my back and the feeling of the soil in my hands reminded me of what's important. Gardening brings me back to my roots; reminds me that I am one with the earth.

Late in the afternoon I paused and listened. I heard the sound of two cardinals in the tree above me. Standing very still so I didn't disturb them, the birds swooped down to the feeder a few feet away. The male took his turn at the feeder while the female sat in the tree watching and chirping. The male flew up to her and gently placed a seed in her open beak. He then flew down to the feeder and repeated this intimate act again, and again.

As I stood and watched, beautiful music suddenly erupted from my husband's studio. The music seemed to provide the background for this intricate ballet. It became a grace filled moment of perfect clarity.

Cardinals mate for life. This is his beloved and he will perform this task many times over their lifetimes. She in turn, keeps watch in order to protect her beloved from all harm. They are helpmates, partners, lovers, protectors. He has her back and she has his.

How blessed we are when we find someone to share our life. How wonderful to be loved so deeply that no matter how tough things get, good days, bad days, sorrows and joys, sickness and health, someone has our back.