You Can Learn A Lot From A Goose
Milton Olson has studied
Canada geese and compiled these lessons:
- Geese fly in a V
formation for greater range of the entire flock. As each bird flaps its
wings, it creates uplift for the bird following. This adds seventy-one
percent to their flying range than if one bird was flying alone.
Lesson:
People who share a sense of common direction and community get where they are
going quicker and easier.
- When a goose falls out
of formation it feels the resistance of flying alone and quickly goes back
into formation.
Lesson:
Stay in the company with those headed in the direction you want to go.
- When the lead goose gets
tired another goose takes the point position.
Lesson:
It pays to take turns doing hard tasks and sharing leadership.
- The geese in formation
honk to encourage the lead goose.
Lesson:
Be sure your honking is helpful.
- When a goose gets sick
or wounded two geese fall out of formation and follow it to the ground and
protect it. They stay until their companion dies or is able to fly again and
then launch out to catch up with the flock.
Lesson:
Stand by each other in difficult times.