Opening the blinds to view the bird feeders my heart broke wide open. There lying submerged in icy water was a dead sparrow. I'm not sure exactly how it died but my guess is that it flew into the window, was momentarily stunned, and then plunged into the water below.
.JPG)
This may sound a little strange but in my own way I mourn each death I witness. Whether its a dead deer at the side of the road, an animal that has been run over or an insect that's under attack. It's often hard to witness but the more time I spend in the country the more I've seen that this is a part of life. It will come as no surprise that I am often described as 'too emotional' (and it certainly has its downsides) but I'd rather feel that not at all.
There was a lump in my throat as I took these images and my stomach twisted but even in death I saw beauty. My hope is that when you look at this image you don't see just a dead animal but the beauty of this bird too.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThat is so sad, and at the same times, these photos, especially that last one, are stunningly beautiful. I love your heart.
ReplyDeleteI understand. Always saddens me to discover any animal that has passed. Even in death there is beauty.
ReplyDeleteYes I understand too. Your photos are beautiful. I'm drawn to the 2nd photo and the perfect little feet and the reflection in the water.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos, Kathryn, to celebrate the little sparrow. It is very sad, but I agree that everything deserves to be mourned. My garden holds the grave of any little (or bigger) animal that dies here, including lizards, snakes, birds, insects, chickens and our dear cat Luther.
ReplyDeleteHeart-breaking!! I don't know how you could have possibly photographed the poor thing....but you've done so with a big beautiful open heart!
ReplyDeleteThanks Marcie. My first instinct was to look away. Over the years I've come to look at nature square in the eye not only for its beauty but the less appealing side too.
DeleteVery sad, but nature is a cruel mistress. You gain much by noticing... xo
ReplyDeleteThanks Nancy. Living in the country I'm sure you've seen your fair share of death too.
DeleteI am right with you. I mourn each and every death, ask that its soul be cared for, and I photograph the beauty of what they leave behind. I learn so much from not turning away. Bless you and the little sparrow.
ReplyDeleteI'm behind, was gone all weekend to Dallas...I remember you saying something about this little guy/gal. Yes, it is so sad, but yes I do see the incredible beauty you captured in those darling feet. I'm still stunned my my lizard experience and sure hope I don't run into any more alien lizards!
ReplyDeleteI understand what you are saying here and I, too, am "too" emotional. I get a lump in my throat, a heavy feeling inside as my heart rips open when I see any animal that has passed. I lose a little more of myself.
ReplyDeleteYour images are beautiful for what they are and I give you credit for finding the strength and courage to take those pictures.