By Joy Le Page Smith, MA, BCC

Have you ever noticed geese as they wing their way through the skies? With the exception of those who found their ways to our dinner tables, these gracious birds continue to form notable “V’s” while in flight. Have you wondered why geese fly in that formation? Scientists have discovered that the flapping of their wings creates an uplift for the bird directly behind. By flying in the “V” the flock gains 71 percent greater flying range than would otherwise be possible with each bird flying on its own.

When a goose slips out of formation a sudden drag discourages the bird from trying to “go it alone.” He quickly gets back in line where he gains the “lift” once again. When the lead goose gets tired he rotates back in the “V” while another flies point. The honking you hear is from the geese in the rear who encourage those in the lead to keep up their speed.

When a goose falls sick or wounded, two others leave the formation and follow him or her down to help. They stay to protect that goose until the bird is either able to fly again, or dies. Then, the helping geese launch out on their own or join another formation until they are able to catch up with their original group.

Nature is a great teacher. We who share a common direction, finding and following the footsteps of Christ will reach our goal quicker and easier if we travel on the thrust of one another.

As thinking human beings, it should be easier for us to help each other than it is for those within the animal kingdom, motivated by instinct only. Yet, as individuals, sometime the determination to succeed, or to gain recognition, sees us “flying” alone.

Still, deep within there lies an instinct to help the “wounded other.” We see it in the hospitals, in our churches and sometimes on the street. No doubt that was the force that motivated a father of five in New York City, which will forever stick in my mind. He jumped in front of a train in order to save an old man.

On the other hand, we thinking humans often do a masterful job of suppressing that helping urge. We can find ways to appease our consciences, like, “I am late already . . . too many “balls in the air, here.”

The challenge today is to reflect on how we relate to people who are hurting. They are all around us. Always, we think of people who need food at this time of year. Another direction to consider are the people in our community who are lonely—those in nursing homes or home-bound, long term. These are hard roads to walk. And, stepping alongside means we will be taking on some of their pain. It is so much easier to stay in our comfort zone.

Yet, how can we forget the words of our Lord: “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me. I was ill and you comforted me, in prison and you came to visit me … I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my least brothers, you did it for me.”

All are made in the image of God. Is it not amazing to contemplate that a visit to an elderly person, a card to a person who is suffering, or helping someone less fortunate will reach the very heart of God? Following the footsteps of Christ rarely finds us on “easy street”—at least not for long. It is far from easy, considering the needs of another who lives with a lot of pain, whether by illness, grief, or homelessness. Yet, offering a smile with a silent prayer says, “I care,” when nothing else can be done.

When we go to the side of those who are wounded—those who are sinking—it must be with an ear open to God’s Spirit within. Otherwise we may lack the wisdom to know when to stop our energetic flapping, our efforts to bring them back into line. Surely, it is a listening, waiting presence that allows another’s thoughts and feelings to be fully heard.

From those who have gone before us, we have received the gift of strength. We are called to faithfully carry the weight of that strength so as to uplift one another. It is not enough to soar on our own.

About the author: Joy Le Page Smith is a Board certified clinical chaplain. Her articles and blogs are read in 32 countries. Joy’s four books are available on her home page at Healing-with-Joy.com where readers can view–FREE–her children’s book titled, The Little Mountain Goat Who Was Afraid of High Places.