I watched a bird build a nest today--musings collected from 'being' present

Have you ever actually seen a bird build a nest? I never have and didn't realize how amazing it was! I felt like I was evesdropping on a sacred task.
This beautiful morning dove went back and forth from the boughs of a pine tree in our backyard, to another spot in our yard where there were lots of dried pine needles and some sticks, carefully selected a mouthful, and flew back to the tree. Over and over and over again. Each time, she chirped as she flew back with the twigs.

After a while, I heard some commotion and realized she was fighting off another bird that had entered the space in which she was selecting her twigs. I immediately thought how the animal kingdom too, as simple and good at 'be-ing' as they are, still has something to learn about casting away fear and competition, and how to exist peacefully with their fellow bird.

But as I type I am also thinking about personal space. How that is important to all of us. How we need it to be our best selves and to get along peacefully with others.

A little personal space, be it a room in our homes, a spot under a tree outside, a favorite picnic spot, etc. And how much does it ruffle our feathers when someone else is in our spot? Not that we have anything against the person in our spot, but it's our spot and having that special place all to ourselves helps us to keep our gas tanks of love full so that we may radiate love to others and get along peacefully.

So I guess watching the bird made me ponder two things. One, that very simple things can be sacred tasks, and two, we all need our own personal space. So if you are not getting your personal space, remember to ask for what you need from those around you. (Try to be a bit more polite than the bird though :) )