Enveloped in Bird Song

Normally I live on the south side of Chicago where I hear city noises outside my window: cars driving by, stereos, airplanes overhead, the train clanking on the nearby tracks, and the incessant noise of the car alarm in the middle of the night.

I spent a week on a silent retreat, meaning I was silent and didn't have anyone to talk to. But it was by no means silent. You see, I was enveloped in bird song. So many birds: cardinals, bluejays, orioles (yes, I know those birds because of the sports teams), some wood peckers and so many other beautiful winged creatures with names that remain a mystery to me.

I am not normally a bird aficionado, but this crowd caught my heart.  They also were the soundtrack for my prayers. And an inspiration. I'd like to share with you a poem that I wrote, called "Enveloped in Bird Song," and then share a video of morning prayer with the birds so you can enjoy the experience as well.  First the poem.

"Enveloped in Bird Song"
Morning coffee and prayer
enveloped in bird song, I read:

'Did your heart never fill with wordless
wonder when you heard a bird sing?' [Anthony DeMello, SJ]

Enveloped in bird song, I read:

'Let all the earth cry out to God
with joy! [Psalm 100]

Enveloped in bird song,

I sit,
eyes closed,
ears wide open,
heart softened.

So much joy.
So much wonder.
So much love.

Enveloped in bird song.
Enveloped in bird song.
Enveloped in bird song.
Amen.

And, here's a video for your own morning prayer with the birds!