Lately, I’ve been letting people know that if they’re interested in a Quaker Parrot, my pet bird, George, is available. Of course, it would completely shatter my heart if someone actually took me up on the offer. But as I prepare for my road trip, I’ve been thinking a lot about George’s life—a projection, perhaps, of contemplating my own mortality at midlife. Still, I’ve begun asking questions like: Is George happy? Am I the right companion for him? Is he a “studio apartment over a garage” kind of bird? And most importantly, will he be an untroubled, healthy bird with the amount of attention I’m able to give him? (He needs it ALL THE TIME.)
As I try to understand George and hope that George is somewhat understanding me (we do have funny bird calls we exchange—me squawking from my chair, George from the top of his cage), I remain hopeful that we’ll figure things out and that he’ll become more content. In an effort, for his Christmas gift this year, I gave him a new perch so he can sit closer to my chair (and see me at all times!). Yes, George is a bit clingy, but don’t all relationships have their ups and downs? I guess that goes for the ones we have with our animals, too. So unless some awesome, kind, caring, and giving person wants to adopt my baby, the next step might just have to be couple’s counseling. They say there’s a turkey vulture accepting new clients near some roadkill on the way to Berryville. Grace!
But fret not, dear reader. During my road trip, George will be in loving, capable hands, and I think he’ll relish having new company. Or he might growl and scream and completely scare any new love away. I’ve been there.
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