The Wounded Bird

When you see a bird that can't fly, is your inclination to pick up that bird and stroke it back to life with your love and comfort? Or do you assume somewhere behind you is an animal lover that will come along and help that bird?
How do we manage to find the balance between constant caregiver and carefree bird watcher? There is something smart in both types of people, yet they also offer an extreme side. The one can become an enabler where the bird can never fend for themselves if you are mothering, over protective and constantly coddling and stroking. The other can become aloof and not notice when a wolf is about to come and eat the bird, whereby appearing selfish to the other bird watchers in the park.
Do you know what your role is among your family and friends? Are you the 'fix-it' person, the 'nurturer', or the "calls-it-as-they-see-it"? Society tends to lump these labels on us and at times that label can become daunting. I know I share similar qualities with certain family members I have and we want to fix the problems placed at our feet. It's in my nature and I can't help it. But sometimes, I have to step back and realize that some issues are not for me to fix. Sometimes that wounded bird flapping around me may not be my animal to mend. Especially if the bird has been crushed time and time again. It may be that the bird is meant to look within and instead of flapping for attention from others, should figure out a way to fly on their own.
I'm sure people will think that last statement cruel and I'm all for asking for help when someone needs it. Lord knows I ask when I need help. But we need to question if people truly want our help or if they just want to be heard. There is a huge difference. Sometimes people don't need a 'fix-it' person. They need to hear the truth and then take care of the situation. If we are family or true friends - we should be able to handle the truth and not simply always be looking for someone to tell us what we want to hear. If we do, we're that wounded bird that will never be able to fly on our own.