Life Is Like a Daring Hummingbird

Every spring and late summer, the hummingbirds stop by to visit the milkweed, lantana bushes, and the sugar water we set out for them. For several weeks, they keep us company during our morning coffee and end each day in a flutter of activity among the blooming plants and trees.

As I watch the tiny hummingbirds dart and swoop through the palm tree, I wonder how they keep that pace. What does the hummingbird know that I do not?

The hummingbird belongs to the Trochilidae family of birds. These small birds weigh only 2 to 20 grams. Their sharp sword-like bills allow them to dig deep to drink the nectar of their favorite colorful flowers.

Did you know?

The bee hummingbird of Cuba is so small you could mail 16 of them in a first-class letter
Two tiny pea-sized eggs of the ruby-throated hummingbird fit in a walnut-sized nest
Hummingbirds are the only vertebrates that can hover in flight, and can fly backward and upside down
Their stamina allows them to fly 30 mph and 45 mph during a courtship dive
They have no problem flying for 18-20 hours straight while their heartbeats 225 times per minute
Hummingbirds retreat into torpor—a very deep sleep where their metabolism slows to a minimum to rejuvenate
Hummingbirds do not socialize and live in constant competition for a limited supply of flower nectar

Thinking about this marvelous creature, I realized the tiny bird had a few lessons to share.

The hummingbird knows the purpose.

If you think of the size of the hummingbird, the poor creature should not have a chance in nature. The hummingbird doesn’t know what she cannot do. She uses what she has to survive and serves as a special pollinator for plants that can’t broadcast seeds.

The hummingbird knows resilience.

The small bird who can fly across the Gulf of Mexico never stops to ponder fear or question the purpose of the flight. Using every gift, the tiny, vulnerable bird beats the odds every day.

The hummingbird knows giving.

Although not the most sociable of species, the hummingbird contributes to the sustainability of our Earth. Playing a small, but powerful role, hummingbirds keep other plant species alive so they can serve their purpose. The cycle of life continues because hummingbirds do what only they can do with their special gifts.

I came up with three actions to live my life as a daring hummingbird.

Live your life with purpose. Even if you don’t think you know, your why for every action and decision lives inside you. My why? Touch the heart of the world with kindness, courage, and wholeness
Build resilience through taking care of yourself and becoming more aware of your needs. Practice mindfulness—appreciate the moment. Seek supportive relationships. Allow your purpose to guide you along the way.
Use the gifts that belong to only you to make a difference in the world. Your contribution may seem small and insignificant. We never know the impact of one small act of generosity. Give your best anyway.