Looking Up

This evening as I took Miss Sophie out for her evening constitutional, all was quiet except for the artisans finishing up the bricks on the new house. (I am intrigued by their artwork and skills–I could stand and watch for hours, but I worry about being labeled a stalker in my own neighborhood, so I refrain.)

As I gazed up, breathing in the cold, crisp air, what I saw took my breath away.

The river of birds at sunset. I tried to capture it, but this was a good as it got. The birds are the tiny specks you might think are bits of dust on your screen. I gave up trying to get a great shot and just watched, soaking it all in.

Oh bless it.

A river of birds.

Those blackbirds flying over in a pattern that was beautiful. They waved and wound their way through the skies overhead, their darkness in striking contrast to the brilliance of the soft and lovely sunset.

And I remembered.

I remembered the first time I heard about the river of birds–the first time I’d heard it called that. Pastor Bill talked about them as he shared stories with all of us at Miss B’s memorial service.

Miss B, our elderly cousin, who passed away two years ago today. One week after Mama left this world. Such a gentle soul, who is now dancing in a beautiful bright pink housecoat with no halt in her step and whose speech is now clearer than it’s ever been. I know this with all my heart; I saw it all in a dream. And I am thankful.

I am also thankful for this day two years ago, because hope was born. Again. Bubba’s new baby was born. The one so loved and anticipated by us all. He was born and we all fell in love. And fell to our knees in thanks. He had a hard start, but he’s a strong little guy, and he is a delight in our world.

Two years ago today. A day that began with saying goodbye brought a beautiful hello by the time the sun set.

That’s what life does. It’s never a straight cut path. It waves and winds through joy and sorrow, good times and sad. The most important thing about the journey, just as it is for our feathered friends, are the ones who travel alongside us, helping us to navigate the path. Staying beside us and moving to lead the way when we need them to.

Tonight I’m thankful for the life of Miss B, who shared her love of beautiful things with us all and didn’t let what she “should” be able to do stop her from trying to defy the odds. And I give thanks for my nephew, our Deer one. He’s a sport, and his love and those eyes and when he says, “Oh sure…..”

Good job, God. Thank You.

And happy birthday, little one!

Love to all.