A Goose and a Person
It’s amazing how much we have in common with a flock of geese, a school of fish and other groupings of animals. We, too, are a group of beings that all look the same but have individual differences. As the geese fly north, one individual goes to the front and cheers the team on, and when that leader is tired, another goes to the front and takes over. As thousands of wildebeests run across the plains of Africa, if one on the outside spots a trench, they move away from it, their neighbor senses that shift and follows, and so does their neighbor and their neighbor, then the entire flock. In a school of fish, when one individual detects the presence of a shark, they change direction which their neighbor senses and follows and then the entire school follows.

Regardless of the size of the group, everyone has a unique and crucial role, and it is their individuality that determines how they act. While at some time one will be in the middle of the flock, at one point they will be on the outside and at another in the front.

In the life of all animals there will be times when weather, predators and other factors threaten their home and life. For us homo sapiens moving through this world, we too always have been and will continue to be confronted with threats and challenges. A great variety of measures have been recommended to help protect ourselves during times of danger, and many help us deal with external factors.

However, while in the flock, our individuality is crucial, it influences our alertness, our choices, our sense of timing, our attitudes, and our mental as well as physical strength. One action over which we do have control is fortifying that individuality.

To start, this could be done by simply looking at ourselves and recognizing our core values, strengths and passions, then simply acknowledging them. Secondly, simply stating and communicating them wherever and whenever possible. This confirms and reinforces the foundation which is part of what makes us so special.

Also, what is invaluable is finding one person who shares one of our passions then connecting with them on that subject. That interaction confirms and fortifies the passion. In addition, seeking out a group of others who appreciate and encourage our true self increases the benefits of that passion and reinforces our individuality.

Can we identify two of our idiosyncrasies and two of our weaknesses? These are traits that are equally an integral part of us, so it’s good to not just acknowledge them but also to celebrate them. These actions to reinforce our unique strengths and individuality come into play as we move with others. They help protect us as individuals and communities. Our individuality is a powerful force which helps us get what we care about and where we want to go. Acknowledging and honoring it sharpens our alertness to enjoy being in the middle of the flock, on the outside, and at the front.
-Markly Wilson