Spring is for Beginnings

Welcome to my second springtime post!

I’m a bit lost as to what to write about in terms of topics, but spring is the time of new beginnings, so I think I’ll start there!

As a writer, sometimes I find myself in muddy ruts filled with negative thoughts. Everything from concern over an overly simplistic plot to boring side stories paralyze my writing progress. How can I find the new beginning I need, that mysterious push to write, when I’m just not feeling myself? During times like these, I realize the importance of searching for motivation (it’s a weird thought to think we need to motivate ourselves to get motivated–but we do!).

One thing that always inspires me is nature. A long walk in the park is definitely something that rejuvenates my mind, or even a nice day watching the trees outside my window can help my mind get back into the flow of things. Recently, on one of my walks, I had the chance to spot an Eastern Bluebird and get a great photo of it.

I’m fortunate enough to be in an area where these gorgeous birds like to be year-round. It doesn’t matter how many times I spot one of these colorful birds, I’m always amazed at how bright and cheery the natural world can be if we look for it. I found this bird resting on a branch in a wooded area nearby an open field. I’m no bluebird expert, but based on observation alone, I know these East Coast dwellers love wide-open spaces. While I’ve only spotted them in the woods a few times, I’m never surprised when I see them flitting from post to post in the grassy park.

Considering the bright colors and size of the bluebird, it must take a lot of confidence and bravery for the tiny creatures to make homes in such unprotected areas. In that sense, I think writers and, really, any sort of artist, can take inspiration from the birds. We too should boldly move forward with our art. We too can be the bluebirds spreading our wings across the fields.

An Eastern Bluebird on a tree limb nearby a patch of large water–most likely a stormwater pond. The photo was edited to enhance the bird’s color.