The Lesson

We can learn from anyone ... or anything, if you look and listen hard enough.

I felt Native American today …

A crow spoke to me for the first time.

It was in his language, but I understood.

 

He swooped down from the heavens

and landed gracefully at my shoeless feet.

I thought for a moment he had found his meal.

 

Instead, he peered up toward my bewildered gaze

and offered a bit of reassurance and calm.

I reciprocated in kind and a connection was made.

 

We sat together, he at my feet and me on a bench

over-looking Sarasota Bay, not far from downtown.

He began the conversation in a matter-of-fact manner.

 

“I’ve chosen you for a reason,” he cawed.

“It was not just coincidence or luck.

No, you and I are alike in more ways than you think.”

 

On the bench I remained startled but still,

something … an epiphany of sorts, took hold.

There was no fear or hatred between our hearts.

 

As the crow continued … in his language, I listened.

“There’s much work for us to do,” he declared,

“and so little time to bring the masses on board …”

 

“Will you help me get the word out to your species.”

“In your language?” I inquired.

“The truth,” he acknowledged, “is the same in all tongues.”

 

“Those who speak it, know it when it is found …

Those who don’t … care little for the consequences.

“We are beholden to each other, to do what’s morally right ...”

 

Am I moral enough to deliver the word, I wondered.

As if I spoke aloud, he answered, “Yes, we all are if we choose to be.” 

Our minds connected on the other side of illumination.

 

I joined and flew with my companion, into the cloudless sky,

where crows often soar to explore the nature of man.

I became a crow today, didn’t plan on it … just happened.

 

Reviews

[lessa (kenzie)]

“Those who speak it, know it when it is found …
Those who don’t … care little for the consequences.
“We are beholden to each other, to do what’s morally right ...”

WOW!! I love this whole write, this is amazing...
These lines stood out as a brilliant lesson.
Awesome

[Allen Smuckler]

Thank you so much for your kind words Alex. It seem so simple to be a decent ... honest ... and sincere human being... but sometimes we just need someone to open our eyes and hearts. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read and respond to my writes, Alex...they are always welcomed.