A Gift of Hummingbirds

I spent some time a while back in the healing environment of the Optimum Health Institute near San Diego, California, eating raw fruits and vegetables and sprouted seeds and grains while also attending seminars on holistic living, which includes care not only of the body, but also of the mind and spirit. The holistic health program which I underwent there alleviated some medical conditions that had been haunting me for a long time; more about the Institute in another article.

The grounds are unusually beautiful with the branches of exotic (to me) carob and pepper trees and various palms spreading out over a brick courtyard bounded by lodgings and buildings of obvious Spanish influence with white stucco walls and romanesque windows. Bird of Paradise and Calla Lilies bloom in profusion with morning glories and nasturtiums, Bougainvillea and other flowering shrubs and plants too numerous to name. Hummingbirds abound and have built tiny hanging nests in many of the trees.

I enjoyed walking through the courtyard and gardens several times daily while staying there. Sometimes I came across the green, iridescent "hummers." No matter how often I see these fairy-like creatures, I always experience them as a gift of the gods. I never tire of seeing them; each one renews, awakens the sleeping spirit like the the hand of a joyful god.

With their metallic emerald backs and roseate throats and whitish underbellies, I believed they belong to the species said to be found most commonly in Southern California, Calypte Anna or Anna’s Hummingbird.

One day I was feeling a little downcast as I walked along a footpath through the gardens when a hummingbird suddenly appeared just a few inches from my face. Startled, I still had the presence of mind to stop at once. The little creature hovered in front of me, those diaphanous wings a blur of light, then darted off. . .

. . .Coming back again just as quickly, hovering near my face again. I could have touched it; my heart leapt up. It hovered for a while then darting away, stuck its bill and a bit of its head into a Hibiscus trumpet. . .Came out all covered with pollen and hovered near me again for several seconds before flying off.

My heart always bubbles with joy in the presence of these seemingly magical birds. They uplift my heart and pierce my consciousness with pure delight; help me to enjoy this creation and appreciate being alive. Like so many people, I find them very special creatures.

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