Birdwatcher In Residence
I binge watched The Residence on Netflix, and one thing that’s stuck with me is that the main character is a brilliant detective who is also a birdwatcher. Her love for bird watching is woven throughout the series—no matter what’s happening, even while doing a murder investigation, she takes advantage of any opportunity to look for birds. She’s an eternal birdwatcher with her binoculars, always watching.
Just watching the series, I can already spout off random info on birds—did you know that the black-capped chickadee is known for having a remarkable memory? It made me curious about bird watching and sent me down a rabbit hole (no pun intended) to find out more about the appeal of it. Not about solving cases, but investigating birdwatching.
Stillness in the Midst of Chaos
Birdwatchers wait. They don’t chase—they let the bird come. They know the power of stillness. Even in the midst of investigating a murder, and when the stakes are high, the detective disappears to find moments of peace by birdwatching.
Birdwatchers teach us the power of embracing stillness and presence—especially when the world is loud and fast. Peace and intensity can be held at the same time.
The Practice of Observation
Watching birds takes focus, quiet, and patience. It's intentional observation. Discerning life’s truth is also something that requires observation and focus. Their senses become more sensitive over time.
What am I learning to listen to?
What truth do we miss when we’re not paying attention?
You Don’t Need the Binoculars to Begin
Tools help, but curiosity is the real starting point—even if you don’t have the binoculars yet. You don’t need to be an expert to begin observing your own life, your surroundings, or your spirit.
Start where you are—spiritually, creatively, and emotionally. Celebrate the beauty of beginning where you are.
Showing Up – Returning Again and Again
Birdwatchers show up. They revisit the same places—always hoping for something new. Repetition doesn’t always mean stagnation. Sometimes it means faithfulness, commitment, or deeper seeing.
There is power in consistency—in routines and relationships. Birdwatchers remind us to show up.
Watching as a Sacred Act
Birdwatching isn’t passive—it’s a sacred devotion.
Thankful for the mentors, elders, and wise ones in our life who watch out for us with the intention of a birdwatcher. For those who take the time to observe, even when others rush by.
Shout out to the birdwatchers—literal and spiritual—those who love us, teach us about stillness, the power of observation, consistency, and starting over.
To the Birdwatchers: I may not have the binoculars, but my eyes are open. The world can learn from the wisdom of birdwatchers.