The random thoughts of a Christian parrot
You know, God certainly went to town when He came up with the idea of parrots! We’re a really diverse bunch, with some 393 species of us located around the world. And rather like people, we come in all shapes and sizes. We can be small, medium, large or even extra large!
We can be both skinny and a bit podgy. The Buff-faced Pygmy Parrot found in New Guinea weighs just 12 grams, while the huge, flightless Kakapo of New Zealand can weigh as much as 4 kg. And just like humans, we have our own appearance, character and curious quirks.
I’m sure that you all know how good Amazons and African Greys are at talking human language. But did you know that there are parrots that have become brilliant opera singers? It really is true, and to see it for yourself, I suggest you google “You tube opera singing parrots” then sit back and enjoy the performances! There are also parrots like the Palm Cockatoo that can cause a stir in the neighbourhood by drumming on hollow tree trunks with sticks. There are Military Macaws which fly in splendid formation, rather like a top aerobatics team. Then there’s the New Zealand Kea with an unusually shaped beak that’s perfectly suited to the scrap-metal business. Park your car in the wrong place, and it will have been recycled by the time you return to it. And we mustn’t forget the stunning Umbrella Cockatoo, affectionately known in France as “The Parrotpluie.” He’s a very useful friend to have when the weather’s wet.
And you know, we parrots could teach you humans a thing or two about diversity. Although there are so many different types of parrot with so many individual traits, on the whole, we all get on with one another. Diversity gives the parrot family a unique richness, and it should be just the same for humans as well. After all, we’ve all been crafted by the same Creator. And as the Bible reminds us, the promise of Salvation is there for everyone, irrespective of their nationality, ethnicity and cultural background. You see, difference doesn’t have to be seen as a threat. In fact, quite the opposite. We’ve all been given unique gifts and talents and it’s important that we share these in a positive way. Because then we all benefit.
In Romans chapter 10, verses 12-13, Paul says:
“For there is no difference between Jew and gentile – the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Everyone needs to remember who is ultimately in charge. Pride, prejudice and discrimination have never been a part of God’s world. What really matters are the inner qualities of each individual. Who they are. What they stand for. What they believe. What they are prepared to give to the world around them. And the type of footprints that they leave in the sand as they walk through Life……….
Let me leave you with a saying from my best friend, -Einstein- the African Grey:
“We can be everything if we choose to unite,
But we will be nothing if we choose to fight.”