From the Age of Innocence.........An Irritating Phobia!

From the Age of Innocence.............An Irritating Phobia

It's summer, we've spent an enormous amount of time outside this morning, the earth looking totally refreshed from the rains the previous evening, a steamy eery looking fog slowly rising, trying to block out the relentless sunshine, leaving the earth shrouded in a damp coolness.  We watch in awe as the swallow tailed kites, feeding in flight, seemed to swoop in a synchronized ballet, their graceful movements seem effortless.

For most of my life, Ornithophobia, better known as the fear of birds, has plagued my being.  Not so much when in the outside world, but should one invade my inside privacy, I will be the one to quickly vacate.  Strange how my inquisitive nature has removed certain fears, I now stop to observe birds of prey and wading birds, whether inflight, nurturing their young, wading or simply feeding.

What was I thinking, "I want a parakeet for my birthday!"  Was it the spoiled baby of the family crying out, wanting the same request granted as her older sibling? I'd like to think so, but a lesson quickly learned, "think before you speak!"  This continues to be a daily struggle. On the flip side, my appreciation for the numerous winged and feathered friends in my world is something of a new found wonder, whether it be the graceful swans, rose feathered spoonbills, the majestic bald eagles or the blood red cardinals, they bring a certain balance and mood adjusting serenity into my daily world.

Whether it was the immature child within wanting same privileges or some early attempt to bring this ridiculous phobia to the forefront, I now realize it is all about balance, living in harmony with all people and the creatures that inhabit this tiny planet is a necessity for survival of everything; with time, patience and education all things are possible..............but please don't land on my shoulder!

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