The bird had been flying for hours before landing on the branch outside the house. It was getting dark and a cold rain was starting to fall. Partially sheltered from the rain, he stared in the window watching the family inside.

It was a picture of everyday life. One the bird had seen many times. A young mother was putting dinner on the table for her children, the father absent. The children were talking about their day at school, the homework that needed done, and the show that would soon start.

He wondered what it would be like, to be in that house with that family. The joy of flying free in the sky was thrilling, but the security and warmth of the home was enticing. Would he replace the absent father; sitting down to dinner every night safe with a loving family? Would it be worth giving up the gift of flight?

At that moment the mother turns and looks out the window, brushing the hair back from her face. Spotting the bird on the branch, she silently yearns to take flight and soar through the air with him.