Free Bing photos
Aerodynamically speaking, the magpie is about as mis-designed a bird as they come. A beautiful bird with a ridiculously long tail. Watching them fly can often feel like watching Irishmen stumbling out of a pub. They sing their strange song, a cross between a blue jay and a crow, as if they were mockingbirds. Curiously, they don’t seem bothered one wit about their odd characteristics, nor do they merely make do. They make a rich life along lakes and streams where they build the most spectacular nests. Almost fully woven hanging baskets.
Free Bing Photos
As I hiked I watched a pair collecting sticks and chattering away with one another. They have such an unusual call it is a bit hard to tell if they are bickering or lovingly calling to one another. Same could be said for many couples I know. As I watch, the thicket flashes with their white and blue wing markings as they look for debris to build with. Often in the trees and shrub all you can see is this long black group of feathers bobbing up and down. They are a very curious bird, indeed.
I can’t completely explain it but whenever I watch them fly they give me hope. We can all do more than make do with what we were given. We can build nests of rich lives with what we already possess in this moment. Whatever perceived personal flaws we think we have, we likely don’t or it was even intended for our adventure. There really aren’t design flaws. Spiritually speaking, it’s impossible.
Sharon Tate was once quoted to say, “Everything that’s realistic has some sort of ugliness to it. Even a flower is ugly when it wilts, a bird when it seeks pray, and ocean when it becomes violent.” The trick is to penetrate deeply into what lies before you. To really look at a thing or a person or a situation with your inner vision, until the beauty of it becomes apparent. We aren’t changed or made better by witnessing beauty in these moments, but rather the effort causes us to see the beauty within ourselves reflected in what we see.
So here’s to the magpie. May they fly long and far.
Meditation Travelogue 
wock, wock, wock-a-wock
to all us magpies 🙂
Absolutely!!
What a charming and thoughtful entry. You find Spirit or you inner peace by such a variety of creatures and events. Bravo
There is so much to be happy with here, truly.
My parents used to call us kids their “little magpies.” I still don’t know if they meant it lovingly or not.
It’s funny you mention seeing the reflection of inner beauty in this piece. Did you know magpies are one of the few species of bird capable of recognizing themselves in a mirror?
I did not know that. Very interesting. I suspect it is because they are of the same genus as crows and ravens that are also remarkably intelligent. Are you sure we aren’t from the same family. My mother often called me her “little lemon meringue”. I couldn’t tell if that meant I was sweet or sour.
Maybe it was a Texas thing. 😉
I too like their chatter. And the way they strut about. We regularly have nests in the firs behind our house.
They are such funny characters, magpies. I have to say I am most impressed with these wild nests they build, although sometimes over the lake. I’m sure they’ve lost a baby or two that way.
What a beautiful post Noelle and a great reminder to look for the beauty in each situation.
To grow spiritually you must see what is beautiful, even when you think there isn’t anything there. This is as true of the wilting flower as it is our own beleaguered selves who we find so much to criticize within. Blessings to your Sunday, my friend.
Well said and blessings right back at you sweet thing🌸🌸🌸
In China, magpies are a symbol of fidelity. In the story of The Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, magpies form a bridge for the lovers to reunite.
I did not know that. I love the symbolism and stories behind animals, bugs and birds. There is a great book by Ted Andrews called “Animal Speak”. He has many such stories. Thanks for taking the time and stopping in to comment.