“Accompanying Pair"

The calendar provides information on how ‘‘Birds in Pairs’ pass through various stages of life so that they can rely on each other for company, develop mutual friendship, become mentors, sense of attachment, snuggle, preen, devotion, exchange confidence, emotionally support each other, eat, fly and have a spiritual footing together.    

 I have five personal beliefs that Birds and Humans have a special bond and my favorite line is “Birds are Philosophy Professors”

 1.      Birds fall in love like humans

2.      Birds and Humans are part of the larger ecosystem & and God’s best creation

3.      Birds give soothing and serene feelings to Humans

4.      Birds and Humans have a special bond

5.      Birds are Philosophy Professors.

 Most people know that swans mate for life. But there are other examples too, including Cranes, Vultures, Eagles, Geese, and Albatrosses.

 Given a choice to become any bird in the world, I will opt for the Albatross or any of the Migratory bird-like Bar Headed Geese or Amur Falcon, from whom I have learned a few life lessons; 

• Know your Strengths - The albatross doesn't focus on his weaknesses, but rather his strengths so that the weaknesses are overcome during the journey
• Understand your Capabilities - Know what his capabilities are and if he needs to educate himself to improve them, then do so instead of being hung up on what he doesn't have/know
• Keep eyes on the Target – Takes your time to determine his life mission and then gear everything towards fulfilling that mission.  
• Prepares Well-  He takes 5 to 10 weeks on the highest cliff before the final jump. Very calculating thinking is done, “Should I jump? Should I not jump”.  Prepare yourself physically and mentally.
• Teamwork- Bar Headed Geese is a superb example of teamwork, leadership, agreeing on a common goal, reflecting on the process, job rotation, and nurturing.
• Focus on the Future: - The falcon is a reminder to look ahead and focus on the future. Don't let your past experiences hold you back; use them as stepping stones to success

And, the last, always - 

• Follow Instincts - Listen to the signals your heart and body are giving for your short and long journeys.  Follows your guts.

The albatross, Bar Headed Geese, and Amul Falcon touched me in many manners.  Now I can mull over things for long. I love the special traits of the albatross that once he’s off the cliff, he seems to soar for five long years without touching the ground again, without regrets.

I had three themes to choose from 1) Accompanying Pairs 2) Month-wise birding count, and 3) Lifers.  After feedback and input, I opted for the first choice. This leaves some scope for the rest two themes for the future.

Special Thanks to our Chairman and Managing Director Sh Rajesh Sharma (CMD) for launching the third birding calendar in a row.