Question:
I read with great interest your column about birds and your request for other stories that involve the appearance of birds during an emotional or sensitive time. I had an unusual bird event on the day that my mother died, Dec. 16, 2000.
My mother had stopped talking and was in a sleeping state. I was alone with her in her bedroom on the second floor of her house. The room was very quiet, until I heard a chirp at the window. This by itself was unusual. I walked to the window and saw the most amazing sight: The tree outside was filled with birds, and not just a flock of one kind. There were representatives of all types: cardinals, robins, crows, chickadees, purple finches, goldfinches, mourning doves, sparrows and one tufted titmouse.
Our minister came to deliver last rites later that afternoon. I told her what had happened, and she said she'd heard of such a gathering before. Nature knows when something extraordinary is happening, and these birds were gathering for the event.
The arrival of these birds continues to amaze me and has given me hope that there really is a spiritual world beyond the living. I ponder this nature mystery and hope that sharing this experience will give hope to others.
J.K., Bethesda, Md Jul 11, 2011
Answer:
Readers may remember my earlier account of an event virtually identical to what you describe that occurred around the time of my mother's death thousands of miles away.
Skeptics speak of mere coincidence, but we should not lose our sense of awe and wonder. In the metaphysics of such coincidental events may be deeper truths that we mortals do not yet fully comprehend.
Those whose hearts and minds are open to nature are surely more receptive to such messages or unusual animal phenomena, especially during the passing of a loved one, than are those who are not mindful of a possible spiritual connection between humans and fellow creatures.
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