Heroes Not Zombies

I’ve seen goldfinches flying through the garden from time to time. They tend to appear in noisy, busy, small flocks, making a lot of noise, bringing a splash of bright colours, and after a few seconds, or maybe a minute, they are gone.

So, I was very surprised to look out the window the other day and notice this one sitting in one of the buddleia bushes. I was even more surprised when he stayed there for a long time – I mean, maybe half an hour or more – just looking around, all by himself.

He came again the following day, and sat in exactly the same place.

I haven’t seen him since.

Apparently, in some traditions, a goldfinch is a good omen, a sign of abundance and prosperity. It symbolises diversity, creativity, joy and simplicity.

Interesting, huh?

Whatever the symbolism (and we meaning-seeking, meaning-creating, humans can’t avoid seeing the symbolic values in everything we perceive), spotting this solitary goldfinch, at peace with the world, just taking his time to look around, was a powerful example of that value which I place so highly in my life – “l’émerveillement du quotidien” – the wonder/marvel/amazement of the every day.

What I find is that my life is enhanced by two things – awareness and curiosity. If I notice something, then give some time and attention to it, it often delights me. It also sparks my curiosity – what is that? what’s it doing there? – and sends me off to explore on the internet which deepens my experience and makes it even more meaningful.

I recommend it…….noticing and enquiring.