The random thoughts of a Christian parrot
Everyone knows that a great many parrots can talk “human language.” We are mimics. We repeat the words that we hear most often. Parrots belonging to Caribbean pirates are reputed to have squawked: “Pieces of Eight!” and “Shiver Me Timbers!” (plus a few other things that aren’t repeatable here).
And rather like children, parrots can absorb and reflect the atmosphere of the homes in which they live. So it’s always a great shame when parrots learn to say swear words, or mimic aggressive shouting or arguments.
You know, in a perfect world, the six most important words we’d learn to say would be:
“I am sorry; I was wrong.”
Or the five words:
“Well done! You were brilliant.” 👍
Or the four words:
“What do you think?”
Or the three words:
“I love you.” ❤️
Or just two words:
“Thank you.”
The single most important word for all of us to learn is quite simply:
“We”
And the least important word:
“I”
These few words, spoken regularly within a household, provide the formula for a harmonious status quo. Because they incorporate humility, honesty, encouragement, inclusiveness, love, gratitude and togetherness.
There’s so much written about love, joy and peace in the New Testament. These are things that so many of us crave for in our lives. And the New Testament is largely a “survival manual” written to help us to enjoy the best possible existence here upon Earth, as well as preparing us all for Heaven. We’ve only recently had Valentine’s Day. Let’s build on that, so that genuine love becomes part of our existence on a daily basis. Whether you’re a parrot like me, or part of a family of humans. So no more swear words. No shouting. And no more aggression. Instead, let me leave you with some verses from the book of “Galatians.”
“You have been given freedom: not freedom to do wrong, but freedom to love and serve each other. For the whole Law can be summed up in this one command: “Love others as you love yourself……” When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:13-14, 22-23a)
