My Hummingbirds

In my little corner of the world, where the sun is setting earlier each day, ruby-throated hummingbirds still magically appear with their unimaginable speed of wings and hearts that beat in unison. They arrive with the warmth of mid-April, a reminder of renewal, and linger until the chill of mid-September, embarking on their incredible journey to wintering grounds in Mexico or Central America. This year, I've been especially fortunate to have quite a few decide to stay a little longer, filling my days with their enviable energy as they buzz from feeder to flower, savoring the nectar that nourishes their bodies. They represent the magic of resilience, and I find great joy in my role as their caretaker, ensuring the feeders are filled and the flowers are nurtured, allowing them the freedom to flourish in my little "sanctuary."

As I observe them today, preparing their tiny bodies for the voyage ahead, I'm reminded of their wondrous patterns and instincts. The adult males leave first, a testament to their courage, I suppose, allowing the females and their young to enjoy the last bounties of summer. In those moments, while I tend to my daily tasks, their buzzing presence serves as a gentle nudge, reminding me to cherish these fleeting moments for it will soon be winter. Though small, their personalities radiate strength and vitality, inspiring awe in me and sustaining me through the long, cold winter as I look forward to their return in the spring. It hurts my soul to know that a high percentage of hummingbirds don't survive their first year due to a variety of reasons that don't seem fair. They work so hard.

The fierce protectiveness of their feeding grounds is a striking lesson in confidence and purpose. It's amazing to witness one perched atop a branch, keenly guarding its nectar. When another hummingbird dares to encroach, the guardian swoops down, unleashing a flurry of high-pitched chirps—an unwavering stand for what it holds dear - food. With five feeders scattered across my yard, you'd think harmony would reign, yet their instincts drive them fiercely, showcasing the power of determination and the instinct to protect one's home. How do these delicate creatures traverse such great distances, fueled by heart and guided by an invisible map? Nature is a marvel, reminding us that strength often comes in the smallest packages.

In a world that can feel chaotic and overwhelming, these hummingbirds anchor me, offering clarity and peace. They remind me that beauty continues to blossom, even amidst challenging times—a beacon of hope that whispers life is still filled with beauty when we stop scrolling and look deeply into its wonders.

Yet, today, as I gaze out beyond my small sanctuary, my heart aches for the wild mustangs and burros in the West, stripped of their freedom by the very hands meant to protect them. The fear they must feel as they're pursued and separated from their loved ones is a nightmare no creature should endure. It ignites a fire within me, reminding us all to stand up for those who cannot speak for themselves, to advocate for compassion and understanding. No amount of money should ever justify such cruelty.

Today, I also feel the weight of the rising tensions in the world, the geopolitical upheavals in the Middle East, the escalating prices of gas and food, and the crushing burden of healthcare costs on families. It paints a grim picture of a world sorely in need of people and politicians with empathy, challenging us to rise with kindness and solidarity, to advocate for change for those suffering without political clout. Or at least it should.

Is it any wonder I seek refuge in the sanctuary of my garden, yearning for the solace of nature amid the whirlwind of toxic stories in the news? In those quiet moments, I find peace, letting the beauty around me wash away the burdens I cannot control. The hummingbirds, with their vibrant energy, remind me that beauty flourishes even in the darkest times. They reinforce what truly matters: living harmoniously with the world, cultivating inner peace, and pursuing our passions with an open heart, leaving a legacy of kindness. Some days, it's the only thing that keeps my soul intact.

Through this communion with nature, I am reminded to rise above the noise, to embrace the beauty and challenges of life with more courage. Each visit from my feathered friends reminds me that within us lies the strength to soar above adversity and make a positive impact in our world. In the intricate dance of life, we are all connected, and together, if we nurture resilience, hope, and compassion, we can help illuminate the path forward for ourselves and all living creatures around us. 

Afterall, if a creature that weighs about 4 grams on average (a U.S. nickel is 5 grams) can fly thousands of miles without a map, build a nest, rear a family, and then fly all the way back, we should be able to summon the courage to do our part, too.