"Mama, come quick!" 

The children were playing in the garden when they came upon these fledglings, a bit stunned by their rude introduction into the big world.  They were spotted when they had wandered out onto the open grassy area, a bit stunned.  

We talked about mamas, who linger nearby ready to help. We talked about not touching them and playing in the back garden, giving them time and space while they worked it out.  We talked about how hard it is to trust that it will be ok when it doesn't look like it will be ok. 

If you have ever had a fledgling person of your own, you know how much easier that all is in theory.  

Here's to fledglings everywhere, eager to spread untested wings.  Here's to their mama's – hovering closeby, watching, praying, coaching, hoping.