Flying lessons

published December 8, 2011

in the Stockton Sentinel

Stockton, Kansas

            A little over a week ago, we had our first snowfall. It was the kind of snow I like the most, because it was mostly just a white rain. The ground was still warm enough that the snow didn’t stick around for long, although at times it was coming down pretty heavy. And even though it accumulated a bit on the grassy areas, the sidewalks were only wet, so no clearing was necessary. That’s a nice way to have a snowstorm – just a beautiful white rain that delivered some much-needed moisture.

            As I went out to my car to go to work, it was snowing heavily, and above me I heard the distinctive sounds of honking geese. Looking up, I saw one of the largest V-formations I’ve ever seen, obviously heading for a warmer climate. Perhaps there was a sense of urgency in their flight that morning, because I was sure I heard their message clearly: “We’re leaving… stay behind at your own risk!”

            Many of you have already read or heard the wonderful lessons we can learn from geese, but it’s always good to reflect on these again. The following narrative was produced by one of my favorite authors, “Anonymous,” who writes some of the best stuff.

Lessons from Geese

            As each goose flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird behind it. By flying in a V-formation, the whole flock adds 71 percent more flying range than if each bird flew alone. LESSON:  People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier when they are traveling on the thrust of one another.

            When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down. They stay with the injured goose to help and protect it until it’s able to fly again or dies. Then they launch out with another formation to catch up with the flock. LESSON: If we have as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other. 

            When a goose falls out of the formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to fly alone and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front. LESSON: If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those who are headed where we want to go.

            When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies at the point position. LESSON: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership.

            The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. LESSON: We need to make sure our honking from behind is encouraging – not something less than helpful.