Wonder & Vulnerability

The sounds of tiny baby birds echo through the leaves. The air is filled with the smells of spring. The green and golds painted in the scene give the eyes a fresh sense of newness.  The long days of winter vanish into the memory ushering in the innocence of spring.  A child gazes in awe at the tiny creatures whose upturned heads and open beaks beg for some nourishment.

We can only imagine what thoughts fleet through the child’s mind as the birds beckon their needs be fulfilled. Is there a sense of wonder that we see in her eyes? Is she puzzling over what those feathered friends are trying to tell her?  They shout out, with constant chirping. Mouths open they reach toward where they anticipate their next meal. 

The child has a sense of wonder. The birds display their neediness and dependence, their vulnerability. Many of us, as adults, have lost  these qualities. As time goes on, we want to be independent and wish to rely on no one  but ourselves. This painting reminds me to find my sense of wonder, as well as my sense of vulnerability in  life. Finding these will give a deep richness in life, one that will never be regretted.

The lyrics from Lee Ann Womack fill my mind as I finish this blog…
“I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty-handed
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens
Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance…
​I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Livin’ might mean takin’ chances but they’re worth takin’
Lovin’ might be a mistake but it’s worth makin’
Don’t let some hell-bent heart leave you bitter
When you come close to sellin’ out reconsider
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance…”