Geese fly in perfect formation. They shape their infamous V and each takes a turn leading. Appearing effortless, they know where they're going and when to rotate. The leader guides his flock and then hangs back while another member takes his place in the front. Should one goose go down, two others follow and stay with him until he's able to get back up. They join a new flock and resume their journey knowing that they'll see their family soon.
We all need to take our turn leading but no one can do it relentlessly. We're all destined to learn by following at some times throughout our lives. The question is, are they going in the same direction you are? Maybe they're following pigeons dressed as geese giving bad directions so they're not alone all winter long. Perhaps they don't know how wonderful the south feels or are just too scared to admit they don't know the way. If you lose your flock and go down you can join up with another flock, but make sure you're after the same things before you start drinking their water and relying on their self proclaimed expertise.
Furthermore, if you're capable of leading your flock in the right direction, why would you follow the lost flock into a hurricane? Following the followers only makes you dizzy. The inexperienced flock can try to convince you it's fun and independent, but really?
A wrong turn here and a doddle there will land you right in the middle of the field during hunting season!
Are you willing to risk everything because you got behind the wrong flock of geese or are you going to spread your wings further and trust the path you were on. Will you get lost in and suffer the storm, just so you're not alone and then hope that someday you make it to your destination? Or, are you strong enough to fly out in front? When you are determined to get to safety, to the "south" and to your family- there will be times that you don't see anyone in front of or beside you; that's because they're behind you! They were waiting for someone like you to come along and they are depending on you to show them the way.
Don't shy away from other flocks. Indeed, there are many lost geese flying in circles hoping to one day be shown the way out of the hunter's field. But, if you find yourself surrounded by a group that is clearly off course, don't be afraid to take the lead! There may be more than just your life depending on it...
3 comments:
You are a good leader, Stephsnie, especially when it comes to taking charge of your family's well-being and showing other people that it's possible to navigate successfully through stormy waters.
By the way, I do actually know how to spell your name! Sorry :( I'm typing one-handed while I hold a baby!
no worries- it just sort of adds to the whole secret coded names :) And thank you- I wasn't necessarily referring to my own abilities to head out in front, because honestly, in most areas, I prefer to follow someone else who already knows where they're going! I get so lost in construction zones because I don't understand all of the open cones but do better when there's a few cars in front of me (until one of them is a truck and then you learn the embarrassing way that you shouldn't follow trucks):) But, it serves as a reminder to myself that sometimes we have to trust ourselves and take the lead! Thanks Megan for your words and friendship!
Post a Comment