A Lesson From Geese
Canada geese travel in V-formation over the Oregon coast twice a year. They migrate as far as
Mexico in winter and to the Arctic Circle in summer, flying 1500 miles in a day.
Each bird creates an updraft by flapping its wings, which makes it easier for the bird following. They take turns leading. This way the flock can fly 70% farther than a goose could fly alone.
If one gets out of formation, it feels the resistance and quickly rejoins the team. Their honking sounds spur the leaders on. If a bird gets hurt, two will drop out and stay with it until it heals or dies.
We can take a lesson: by working together we achieve more than we can alone.
Unity takes effort. The Constitution of the United States has served us well for over 200 years. But we take it for granted. In the process of creating it, leaders debated long about what it should include. The 13 states that had to ratify it were not united. After plenty of compromise and persistence, 39 delegates signed it. A great example of dedicated teamwork.
Unity takes cooperation. The moon landing focused on the astronauts, but a large network of professionals did everything from rocket design to studying pictures of the moon to decide the best spot to land. It was truly “one giant step for mankind” because nearly everyone had a part in it, including all taxpayers whose dollars made it possible.
The geese had the principle of unity figured out a long time ago. For us, this type of oneness requires plenty of humility, understanding, and sweat equity, but it is worth it. Let’s keep committed to getting along. The psalmist wrote, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Psalm 133.1.
By Barry Kimbrough
Pastor, Gold Beach, Brookings, and Cave Junction Seventh-day Adventist Churches
