The need to name things

As part of my travel for work a couple of weeks ago, the group I was with was taken to an overlook of a volcanic crater. We were asked to take in our surroundings, to quietly contemplate how we are all one. How the trees swaying below us were as important a part of the world as a human - no different - part of a whole. We were treated to an amazing opening chant. The world just seemed different for awhile.

As I stood there I saw a beautiful red bird flying below me. My first thought was "What kind of bird is that?"...and then I paused. Why is my immediate need to label things? What is it about a name that would give me any more clarity on that bird. Nothing. Why couldn't I sit there and appreciate the sounds, smells, the rushing wind, the colors and the feeling of peace that overcame me.

Do we limit ourselves by naming things? Do we lose out on the world by saying  - that is a "robin" and moving on? Without the ability to ask that question, I had much more time to study the bird, to watch him cock his head and decide where to go next, to appreciate the color variations on his wings. I know so much more about the beauty of the creature.

It also made me wonder about my decision to not use A's full name on here. Am I limiting your perception of him, or giving you more room to understand this amazing kid that is my son. I hope it's the latter...