spring birdsong

It is late afternoon and I am sitting on the hillside, here near Gallu Temple, in the foothills of the Himalaya. A couple of days ago it was the spring equinox, and it feels like the timing was perfect this year. The weather now is balmy, warm, mostly sunny. But what I've noticed especially is the birdsong. In the mornings, there are so many species of bird singing away merrily, in the garden of the guest house. And throughout the day as well, birdsong can be heard across the valleys here.

And this spring birdsong brings so much joy to my heart. For me it's one of the most beautiful signs of spring. The birds seem so happy. They seem to be rejoicing, at the warming and lengthening days, the flowers, the revitalisation that comes with spring. It's as if it all feeds into the birds, and they overflow with it, and have to sing, sing their hearts out. It's such a joy to listen to. Through their song, that spring energy enters me. I feel younger, more alive, happier.

So I give thanks for all these little birds, and their joyful spring birdsong.