Midnight Mockingbird

I was awakened in the night by the cheerful sounds of a lone mockingbird.  He must have taken a few sips from a discarded energy drink can, for he sang exuberantly and with abandon. I thought about him standing atop the highest peak around and pouring his joy into song which reverberated among the few houses nearby.  I smiled to think of him disregarding conventional birdsong time and ignoring the darkness surrounding him to rejoice in his talent.   I wondered if he was celebrating some momentous event, was  ridiculously happy to see spring arrive early, or if he had just rediscovered a forgotten tune. 

This midnight awakening held many lessons for me.

1. Never fear the darkness around you, no matter how oppressive.  The song in your heart will lighten even the darkest of days when it is broadcast afar.

2. Traditions are not sacred.  If my bird-friend had sung during the day among the noise and distractions therein, I would not have heard him at all.  By choosing an alternative time he held a captive audience.

3. Don't be afraid to stand out. There were likely others in the houses nearby who were not as content to be awakened by his song. There will always be critics, no matter how well executed your talent.

4. Celebrations are important.  My feathered friend reminded me that while I should express gratitude for the great things that occur, the simple gift of life is enough to sing about as well.

5. No matter the size of the audience, deliver your good-news-message.  My mockingbird cared not whether anyone heard the delightful trilling of his voice or not. His song had expanded within his heart until he had to let it out or burst.

It is unimaginable for any day begun with a song to turn out to be other than joy-filled.  May your day begin with a song that plays in your heart and brings you joy.