Crimson Rosella

This photo marks the only time I ever set a scene for birds.

During lockdown 2020, I was so aware of the daily movements of a pair of Crimson Rosellas, that I laid out a carpet of fallen petals. A romantic scene for them, a pretty picture for us. I adore these birds, who are even more dazzling in flight; their crimson red a streaky brushstroke on the forest canvas.

Often seen in pairs, Crimson Rosellas mate for life (aww), and the male and female are indistinguishable. They’re a perfect reflection of each other.

They remind us that we, too, are a reflection of the company we keep. We’re constantly gathering little data points of how to live based on the nature of those around us. Our behaviours, interests, attitudes, beliefs, are all strongly influenced by those we're close to. The people we spend time with play a tremendous role in shaping who we are.

As such, it's worth considering the mix of people around us: those we align with, those who make us feel loved, those who give us space to grow, those we are challenged by or learn from, those who elevate us. We will naturally gravitate towards different people at different stages of our lives, and drift away from others. It's important to honour the gravitational push and pull.

Which parts of yourself do you want to elevate? Is there someone you can spend more time with, who might foster those things? Is there someone whose qualities you admire? Could you invite them into your life more often?