This story begins with a simple hummingbird encounter taking place just minutes ago. I glanced out the window as I was waiting for my computer to complete its task, and saw a strong male hummingbird lingering at an unusually low spot in relation to the feeder. Suddenly he dropped like a lead weight, disappearing from my site.
“Peekaboo”, I thought, and just like a child I headed for the window. Keeping my movements minimal and slow, I peeked down to the brown ferns and rhodie, wondering if my little hummingbird friend was still near. As suddenly as he disappeared he returned, rising up from the foliage like a warrior rising up to meet his opponent. I was glad to have a window separating us, for I had no intention to engage in battle over sugar water.
The hummingbird quickly rose to the feeder, and his initial nervous twitching seemed to subside as he drank in his nectar. The hummingbirds have made it clear that they do not like this new feeder location. It is far too open for their taste.
It may seem more reasonable that a hummingbird would be more concerned about its safety and well-being than larger creatures, but even the lion will find a safe place where they can be the observer, and a time when they can turn their attention inward.
We are not that far removed from the animal world. Our fascination for totem animals in spirit form shows us the attributes and qualities we share with animals. It is only reasonable for us to share a similar need to hide during certain times.
We hide our spark as we ride on the crowded bus or plane. We reserve our personal tastes and needs as we serve in our business. Just like the caged tiger we don’t always have the conditions we seek so we can feel at ease, so we isolate ourselves in our thoughts, drifting into our mind instead of experiencing through our consciousness.
There are ways we can create a safer, more secure environment for ourselves, building our world from the inside. These tools can be found in the book, “Being Here Now – Find your center, Stand your ground”, now available in ebook and paperback format. Learn simple techniques for self awareness and personal ownership.
Estee Taschereau is the Editor and Author of Hummingbird Shaman, offering individual sessions for discovery of the true spark that animates you.
