A Little Bird Told Me . . .

While looking through some files today, I came across a little story I had read years ago, found somewhat humorous, and tucked away for a future time. That time is now. (No better time than the present, right?)

Anyway, this tale has to do with a little bird that was flying south for the winter. It got so cold that it froze up and fell to the ground in a large field. While the bird was lying there, a cow came and dropped manure on it. As it lay there in the pile of manure, the bird began to realize how warm it was. The manure was actually thawing him out! He lay there all warm, content and happy -- so much so that he began to sing for joy! A passing cat heard the bird singing, discovered him under the pile of manure and dug him out . . . only to eat him. What are the morals to the story?
  1. Not everyone who drops manure on you is your enemy.
  2. Not everyone who digs you out of the manure is your friend.
  3. When you're in the manure, it's best to keep your mouth shut!
Of course there may be some notable exceptions to point 3, but hopefully you get the gist of the illustration! I can attest from my own experience that I've gotten into more trouble by saying something than being silent--especially when I find myself in a pile of manure (i.e. a situation that stinks!).

Proverbs 21:23 says, "Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble." Now there's some wonderful counsel for us all. So don't say it's for the birds! :)