Doves are a universal symbol for Peace. Courting Mourning Doves, one would think, would be the picture of bliss. However, I have presented the featured image that might suggest even Doves develop differences. What can we learn from this?
I love this image
The featured image is one of my favorites. Not only because of the general composition and colors but for the emotions being reflected in this pair of courting Mourning Doves. It appears they hit a rough spot in their relationship – just like humans sometimes do. Some people in committed relationships appear to adopt the, “I won’t always like you, but I’ll always love you.” approach. Whatever works!
Do our lives parallel the courting Mourning Doves?
We’re all different. What we look at and what we see is personal to the individual. Let me say that again, paraphrasing Henry David Thoreau. What we look at is not as important as what we see. Perceptions play a huge role in any relationship. Foundationally, communication is key. But what about those non-verbal ques? These courting Mourning Doves are in the throes of a non-verbal que battle – or so it would appear.
The photo amuses me at one level. On being human. What a gift. What a challenge! To see myself in the expression of a dove. Bird of Peace? Through it all, yes. We as humans – creatures of Peace. Through it all, yes. Or so is our desire. First, most people do not seek out conflict. Second, conflict can be a very foreign feeling and is upsetting in and of itself. Third, there is a strong desire to eliminate conflict. We as humans desire to be creatures of Peace.
A closer look at the courting Mourning Dove photo
I love the ruffled feathers, the subtle colors of the Dove’s body plumage. The turquoise blue ring around the eye. The softness of the Dove and the coarseness of the branch. The bokeh (the soft, out-of-focus background) is striking. There is so much to see in this photo. I catch myself daily studying this image. In fact, it is my background on my desktop computer. Take some time to see life, not just look at it. You’ll get drawn into the intricacies and find deeper meaning to every moment in life. Calming, meditative moments.
In case you’re wondering
The featured Courting Mourning Doves appeared to have resolved their moment of tension. They flew off together that evening in a very peaceful manner. Don’t let the sun go down on your anger. Excellent guidance. And illustrated by a pair of Mourning Doves. Birds of Peace, indeed.
Human relationships
Human relationships seem to be built on one or more levels of intimacy. There is emotional intimacy, intellectual intimacy, physical intimacy and, perhaps the highest level, spiritual intimacy. These plateaus of intimacy can be found in varying degrees in any relationship. The deeper we draw ourselves into these levels of intimacy, the more enriching the relationship becomes. Just my two cents, but life is about relationships – at work, at home, social occasions, leisure time even driving down the street – we have interactions with others. Very important to consider. Look for opportunities to improve on any of those relationships. By doing so, we become more complete and grounded.
Closing
We can learn so much about ourselves by observing Nature. Nature provides a blueprint for a successful, enriching life. From nature we discover how to measure true success, true contentment and true meaning. I don’t know who said the following, maybe I did, so I’ll just paraphrase until I can find who to attribute this bit: If I truly understood all there is to know of a single leaf, I would unlock the mysteries of both Heaven and Earth.
Here is hoping your day goes well. Here is hoping you find peace and contentment in the moments of your life. Life living forward, embracing those moments even in times of solace. Contact me if you have questions or comments to share regarding this blog. I would sincerely appreciate hearing from you. Interested in the photos in this blog post? You can find more photos – available for sale – at my website, RedBarnProject.com. In closing, as always, Peace to you.
