Unknown to these poor unsuspecting creatures I am concealed safely in the bushes with my camera.  As I observe their behavior I discover a pattern.  Each bird soars straight to this treasure chest filled with seeds and lowers his landing gear for an emergency landing.  Nervously they look around trying to detect the presence of danger (or maybe they are looking for the paparazzi).  As soon as they feel safe, they begin a furious search for the perfect treat.  They peck and pick up a seed as if to inspect it for quality and just as quickly they toss it aside.  Over and over they scrutinize each new seed and then send it sailing on a voyage into the unknown.

        I watch as the seed flies through the air and plunges to the earth below the bird feeder.  Then a big grin stretches across the birds beak as he finds the object of his quest; the perfect seed.  And just as swiftly as he flew to the dinner table he launches himself and his treasure into the trees towering above my head.  And before he can reach the safety of his nest another hungry bird slams on his brakes as he lands and takes a seat at this all day buffet.  It seems that there is an endless fleet of birds coming to spread a few seeds and then choose one for lunch.

        Then my eye follows one of the discarded seeds tumbling to the ground.  I watch as it strikes the earth like a comet thrust from the heavens.  And before it could come to a complete stop I watch as a chubby little chipmunk snatches it up and scampers away.  Then I notice other fury little animals basking in their good fortune.  They appear astonished that they have found a place where a feast falls from heaven and rains down upon all who are hungry.

        As I look back up at the generous birds feeding their four footed friends I wonder if they know what they are doing.  Are they spreading the seeds and sending their showers of blessings on purpose?  I wonder if they are consciously sharing their food with their earthbound brothers.  I do know one thing; we should be sharing the treasures we have found with those around us.  We should be handing out free samples of the goodness we have found with someone today.  Be sensitive today to the needs of those you rub elbows with and spread some happiness.  I am positive that the crumbs that fall from our table would be a feast to someone today.  Happiness is a choice; share it with someone.

Something to think about:

• There are few dark days ahead for those who have learned to spread sunshine.

• Happiness is like jam—you can’t spread even a little without getting some on yourself.

• Give what you have. To someone it may be better than you dare to think.

• We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.

• What is a true gift? One for which nothing is expected in return.

• When the hand ceases to scatter, the heart ceases to pray.

• It is better to give than to lend, and the cost is about the same.

• Greed gathers itself poor—charity gives itself rich.

• Nothing costs as much as caring—except not caring.

• Good received blesses much; good imparted blesses more.

• Money can’t buy happiness—unless you spend it on somebody else.

• Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.

Thankful for my generous friends
Rickey Moore