My daughter has been having some unique house guests at her place this Summer. For the second time now a family of robins have built a nest on the crossbeams of her porch just underneath the roof. It is incredible watching how they weave grass, twigs, and mud into a sturdy home to hatch their eggs and raise their babies. It is amazing to observe the dedication with which they continuously hunt for food to feed their brood. It is funny too seeing how the Momma robin will fly to the nearby tree when I approach the porch and chirp some not so kind things at me until I leave again.

It is seeing the baby birds grow, however, that is the best thing of all. In less than two months they go from growing in little blue eggs, to napping in a bundle together, to looking like ugly, little vultures with their mouths open, to flying out of their nest to soar in the skies along with their parents. It is wondrous to watch. Anyone who sees this up close can only be filled with awe for the miracle that is life.

My daughter’s house guests have taught me a few things too. They have taught me about hard work and craftsmanship. They have taught me about dedication and sacrifice. They have taught me about growth and life. Most of all, though, they have taught me that while it is safe and warm in the nest, it is better to fly.

The poet Rumi once wrote: “You were born with wings, why prefer to crawl through life?” I for one don’t want to crawl. I want to fly! I want to leave the nest, spread my wings of love and let my soul soar. I want to live the way God intended for us to live with our hearts in Heaven even while our feet are here on Earth. May your heart always fly high then. May your wings of love carry you to Heaven and help you to lift others there as well.