I had to stop - just for a moment - to really listen...to hear.

Her voice - was quiet....but it was sweet. Her song - was melodic...steady...strong. I could see that she was waiting and wanting and wishing. To spread her tiny wings...to fly.

In the background was a chorus of loud geese out-shouting. Questioning and doubting. Saying- no...no...no. You're not big enough. You're not loud enough. You're just not enough - just as you are.

But - I was listening...and I could hear. They were the softest...gentlest...sweetest words. Nothing much more than a whisper - she was repeating to herself over and over again. As if - for no other reason - other than to try to convince herself that she might.

Maybe - I can. Maybe - I will. Maybe - I am enough. Just as I am.

And with these very last words of self-encouragement...and with this very last and hopeful wish - she took one breath in deeply..mustering every last bit of strength within her. She spread her wings. She raised her eyes to the sky above her. And - she flew.