Saturday, March 14, 2009

A Blade of Grass

An example of beauty even in death...

It is usually a rare event for us to find a dead bird in our yard. However, last summer and fall, it got kind of creepy as we sometimes would find a dead bird in our yard about once a week. They have almost always been the mourning doves. I've since found out that this is due to the Nile Virus spread by the mosquitoes.

One morning last July, I found yet another dove on our lawn. For me, it is a bit of a horrific encounter. I accept death as the inevitable, but I cannot bring myself to touch these creatures, let alone look at them once they have passed on. But, the early morning light made me look closer at the creature and appreciate all the nuances there was to see without interruption. I ran back into the house to get my camera and put my macro lens on it and came back out to record the details. I have to push myself to do this. I have to fight the urge to not look.

But, you see, in doing so, I end up with something like this. The shadow of one blade of grass cast on the edge of the wing. The iridescence was unexpected.

So the lesson here? By all means, do leave your comfort zone on a regular basis. You just never know what gifts fall into your lap as a result.

Want to see shadows posted by others throughout the world? Go to Tracy's place at Hey Harriet and look for the Shadow Shot Sunday posting.

8 comments:

Terri said...

That's really lovely. The colors in the feather are remarkable, and that shadow.... Wonderful capture

Hey Harriet said...

Oh gosh how beautiful! I'm so glad that you did leave your comfort zone. Very brave. And very worthwhile!

...poor bird :(

A friend of mine obsessively photographs roadkill. I've never quite understood why. And I must say that his results are not as pretty as your image!

Rosebud Collection said...

What a touching photo/shadow..Have to admit, not sure I would have left my comfort zone..You did a good job..Happy SSS..

A Wild Thing said...

I always accept the understated gifts of Nature, even in death there is beauty...accepting it is growth and a sense of moving forward, never looking back, it is the way of it.

Sylvia K said...

It's sad to see birds dying as a result of the things we humans do to the universe, but you left your comfort zone to give us a beautiful photo and a reminder! Thank you! Happy SSS!

Shannon said...

I'm SO sad for the birdie!!

PJ said...

Being a shy person, taking up blogging was a huge step for me and every day I feel like I'm stepping out of my comfort zone. It's so rewarding, even when it doesn't work all that well. Thanks for the reminder. The photo is wonderful.

Anonymous said...

Very nice. Love your work. Mark

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