Momma Mallard

Yesterday on my way home, there was a sweet Momma Mallard walking down the edge of the road followed by her 9 little babies. All 9 of her kids were all following clustered behind her, less than 12" away. A car came by and Momma and 4 of her babies jumped up onto the sidewalk. The 5 left below the curb were SCARED! They were jumping, jumping, jumping, trying to get up on the sidewalk. One of them finally made it up over the curb (they weren't even as tall as the curb!) and then the other 4 finally made it. They all huddled in, closer to Momma, now less than 8 " away from her, but still walking along. Too precious. I just sat in my car, watching them go along. I guess they were out for their afternoon stroll, building up strength in their little legs (I'm guessing that they live in/around one of the ponds on the golf course right by our house).

My thoughts automatically turned to HG. She's jumping, jumping, jumping, trying to get to her Mommas and yet she hasn't made it to us yet. Even the little ducks KNOW they need their Momma. They want to be close to their Momma. And Momma wants them close to her. She needs to love them. And teach them. And nurture them. All so that they can grow up and become adult ducks.

And then, my thoughts turned to God and the amazing way He made us. He made us, both ducks and humans, to need our Mommas (or could be Daddies, of course). We need to be taught, to be loved, to be nurtured and God, in His wisdom, created families. A place where you can be accepted and loved, not matter what. A place where you can be taught to be strong, ready to face what comes your way. Being in a family is also the first place you get to try your hand at relationship skills. Skills you will use for the rest of your life. HV and I have been talking about this too--you have to practice being nice to your sister/family because it's your chance before getting out in the real world. Children need parents, not just their basic needs of food and shelter met. What would happen to the baby ducks (and children) without them?

HG and the baby ducks need their Mommas.