A flock of crows gathered in the wood to teach their little ones how to fly. Each was tested with a question: “What should we fear most?” “An arrow,” replied the first fledgling. The older birds flapped wings in approval, and the parents of the little bird were filled with pride. The crow council said, “You are one of us now.” A second fledgling answered, “I believe the skilled archer is more terrifying than the arrow. Without someone to shoot the arrow, the arrow is harmless.” The crow council replied, “Most true! Most true! You, also, are one of us now.” The third little crow spoke, “I think neither of the first two answers is correct.” The council, ruffling their feathers, asked, “What?” The young crow spoke, “It is not the archer with skill who is to be feared. A skilful archer always shoots true; therefore, we can judge where to fly to elude the arrow. An unskilled archer has not mastered his aim. The arrow may fly anywhere. So, where skill is lacking, there is much more danger.” All in the council cheered and flapped their wings in glee, knowing they were admitting to the council a very wise crow. They all bowed in humbleness before the youngster. After a time of brief deliberation, they appointed the fledgling to be new leader of the council.

Growing in wisdom may be as much about remembering what we once knew and have forgotten as learning something we never knew and need to learn for a first time. Possibly, in growing up, we grow out of some insight we need to return to to live more wisely and more joyfully, as well as more kindly to all and ourselves, as well.

Blessings! brian