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Everything Broad Ripple HomearrowRandom Ripplings Homearrow2007 07 27arrowColumn

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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v04n15)
Life's Ripples from Broad Ripple United Methodist Church by Rev. Timothy Rasmussen
posted: Jul. 27, 2007

Life's Ripples header

On vacation in Yellowstone, Serena and I had an opportunity to see a lot of wildlife. While taking a raft trip down the Yellowstone River, we saw many eagles and a few raven. The ranger told us the story of the raven which I found fascinating. According to the ranger, ravens work in teams to the benefit of everyone on the team. He said he once saw six ravens pulling open the door to a bear-safe trashcan while one flew in and scavenged and then flew out and shared with the group the food that he found. We honestly didn't believe the story, but the ranger swore that it was true.
Later in the trip, we pulled into a parking lot to hike down to see one of the water falls. We pulled up next to a small pick up truck that was loaded down in the back with camping and picnic supplies. Also, in the back of the truck was a big black raven literally going through all their stuff. He picked up bags of food and moved them out of his way. He also picked up a two quart liquid container and moved it. He pulled out paper plates, bread, marshmallows and other food items, but didn't stop to eat. He kept sorting and digging until he came upon a big loosely wrapped rice crispy treat. He held that in his beak for a moment, decided that was what he wanted and flew off to share it with his mate.
We sat for five to seven minutes watching this bird in total amazement at his determination to find just the right thing to take back to his friends. The bird could have easily eaten his fill right there in the back of that truck, but he was on a mission that would eventually benefit others as well as himself.
What an example for we humans. How much more successful we could be if we worked together to the benefit of all. Unfortunately, we don't see ravens in this area, but they set an excellent example by showing us that, if a bird can care and work for the others on his team, we should be able to accomplish at least as much as that. God created us to be in relationship with Him and with each other. Why do we make that so hard? This week, take it easy on yourself and others and try to find some time to do a little bird watching. Who knows what stories you'll have to tell.



Tim has been a United Methodist Pastor since 1973 and has been at Broad Ripple United Methodist since 2003. Email your questions/comments to tim@BroadRippleGazette.com




tim@broadripplegazette.com
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