Lessons we learn from Geese

This story has been circulated, but it is a great one to embrace !

Next fall when you see geese heading south for the winter... flying along in V formation...you might consider what science has discovered as to why they fly that way:

Fact 1: As each goose flaps its wings it creates an "uplift" for the birds that follow. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone. Lesson: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.

Fact 2: When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.

Lesson: If we have as much sense as a goose we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others.

Fact 3: When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position.

Lesson: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people are interdependent on each other's skills, capabilities and unique arrangements of gifts, talents or resources.

Fact 4: The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.

Lesson: We need to make sure honking is encouraging. In groups where there is encouragement the production is much greater. The power of encouragement (to stand by one's heart or core values and encourage the heart and core of others) is the quality of honking we seek.

Fact 5: When a goose gets sick, wounded, or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out with another formation or catch up with the flock.

Lesson: If we have as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong.

-- Author Unknown

You're Awesome ! (find out why)

“Appreciate the women under your skin.”

The nurturing, caring, mother…the passionate, exciting vamp…the romantic dreamer…the playful child…the determined go-getter…the loyal friend – all these women and more are inside you.

Acknowledge and treasure each one!

Give each of your inner women time and opportunity to surface, for each has wonderful things to offer and makes you so lovable.

Make time for nurturing and passion and romance. Follow your goals and let nothing stop you. Find opportunities for friendship and fun. Respect all your inner womanly strengths and values.

Be proud of these things, for together they create one truly amazing woman. That woman is you!

©Jane Powell – Meditations for Women

Today’s Affirmation: I am proud of who I am.