This summer I’ve been blessed with at least four pair of emerald and ruby throated hummingbirds. They flit among my feeders, sometimes three at a time drinking the nectar I provide.

This summer, the first time I filled the feeders, one flew to our glass patio door and hovered a while, facing me as if saying thank you.

Research shows that this is something they do to communicate. I did feel communicated with and won’t forget it.

Like other homeowners, I like everything perfect. I was bemoaning the unsightly dead branch on the oak tree behind the feeders that mars the view. And then I noticed that without fail it is the only branch the hummingbirds land on when they rest from flitting and stop to look around to make sure the coast is clear.

That made me consider the dead branches in our lives—hopes that were dashed, choices that didn’t work, and I realized they have a purpose too for us to rest and contemplate–to look around and appreciate all the green branches that do thrive.

I’m viewing the dead branch differently. My camera couldn’t catch the hummingbirds busy at the feeders, but look carefully. This photo of the unsightly branch shows a hummingbird resting on the upper right portion.

I’m appreciating that branch’s purpose now. May we have peace as we consider the dead branches in our lives. Instead of wanting to remove them for flawless images, let’s consider their usefulness and rest on them more.