It is interesting to watch how birds land in trees and I’ve been paying more attention to how they do it recently. Wings outstretched and still, the pigeon glides to within a few feet above the branch and then suddenly feathers splay to slow right down and then a sequence of very quick abbreviated wing strokes to lower itself down on to the flexing branch, perhaps one or two more strokes right afterwards for final balancing, a quick lift of the tail feathers, and then stillness. It is the same method every time. Flight has ended and that change from flying to standing takes just a couple of careful, practised seconds.
Have I landed yet or am I still flying? Have a found a place to settle? Would it be this unsupported place, this unendorsed experience known only to me?
Constant Voice 