Bush-Stone Curlew

Curlews are curious, peculiar, and hilarious.

Their knees fold comically forward when they sit down. They scamper around nervously, and freeze when you look at them, as if they can't be seen when still. Their birdsong sounds like a crying baby. They have big, human-like eyes, and appear to have human-like anxiety. They’re one of the most entertaining birds to watch, a genuine cartoon.

Often seen around urban activity, on city streets, in parks and in campgrounds, I initially mistook Curlews for scavengers, and mildly despised them. However, I later learned they are hunters, feeding on the insects and small reptiles that are attracted by the artificial light created by humans.

This really changed my perception of them. It reminded me that like The Curlew, I can't control how others will perceive me.

Moreover, The Curlews seem to personify, or birdify (if we're making up words), our anxiety around being judged; for who we are, what we do, or how we act. Though no matter what, being misjudged and misunderstood is inevitable. We must trust in our own intention and purpose, understanding that the perception of others can sometimes be false, even when our actions are true and pure. We must take security in who we are, despite what others think.

Is there a part of yourself, or your actions, that you fear are being misunderstood? And like The Curlew, causing you to freeze when someone looks at you? Do others make you doubt your actions, or yourself in general?

Despite its endless comedy, The Curlew has a deep wisdom in its eye that says: "Be a good person, but don't waste your time proving it to people."