The Hummingbird and I

By Angela Witzke Andersen

When I think of how small a hummingbird is

Compared to the sky

Compared to the distance he’s traveled

Compared to his journey ahead,

I wonder why he doesn’t rest

Quiet his wings

Quiet his aching hunger

And his desire.

When I think of his faint strains of song

Compared to a symphony

Compared to heavenly angels

Compared to his breathless lungs,

I wonder why he strengthens his descant

Raising his song

And raising his upward flight.

When I think of how short a lifetime is

Compared to eternity

Compared to the distance before

Compared to the journey ahead,

I want to soar with the hummingbird

Speeding my wings

Speeding my aching hunger

And my desire to excel.

When I think of me, my faint strains of faith,

Compared to a prophet

Compared to heavenly angels

Compared to my burning heart,

I want to strengthen my flight

Raising song,

Raising upward flight,

And raising praises to God.

Photography by Ray Kirkland