Today a little bird told me that springtime is here.

He was dressed in his brightest new clothing.

And he had flown to the highest point in his favorite tree.

And then, with all his might, he declared in his loudest voice, “Springtime is here!”

To others, it may have sounded like the tiniest little series of chirps, almost a whisper, so easy to miss.

But I didn’t miss it.

I didn’t miss it, because I was listening.

And because I was listening, I got to hear this little bird’s big soul sing out in joy at the renewal of life.

And because I was watching, I got to see the bright colors of his springtime feathers plume out with pride and delight.

And because I was paying attention, I got to be filled with the happiness, lightness and hope that came from witnessing this little bird’s heart-felt cheer at the start of spring.

Yes, little bird, I feel it, too.

Springtime is here!