Chapter 1: Encountering Challenges

In 2020, I contracted COVID-19, which led to a prolonged struggle with long COVID. However, the arrival of the vaccine in 2021 felt like a lifeline, alleviating my fatigue and mental fog. Just when I thought I was back to normal, a routine flu shot in November disrupted my recovery. My lungs became inflamed, leading to a drastic change in my life.

After an emergency room visit, where I was treated with prednisone and referred to a pulmonologist, I returned home, but the journey wasn’t easy. For six months, I grappled with breathing difficulties that made it hard to talk, walk, work, or drive as I once did. Living off my savings, I had to adapt to a new, more challenging lifestyle.

During the bleak winter months, as I sat on my bed trying to distract myself from discomfort, I began to notice a hummingbird. It was an unusual sight for winter, yet this little creature visited me almost daily. I felt a connection, as if he was urging me to remain hopeful and positive during my darkest times.

To support my feathered friend, I ordered hummingbird nectar and set up a feeder, worried he might struggle to find food without blooming flowers around. To my delight, he consumed it swiftly!

After six months of struggle, I finally began to feel relief in my lungs. I could talk, walk, and even engage in light yoga again. But then, I contracted COVID-19 once more.

Now, I find myself returning to a slower pace, concentrating on my breathing. On good days, I hold onto the hope that this will be the final bout of illness. I dream of future adventures, particularly my long-held aspiration to travel to Europe.

As I continue to recover, the hummingbird reappears outside my window. While it’s not unexpected given that it is late spring, it still brings me joy. I’ve replenished the nectar, and soon enough, another hummingbird joined him. They flit around outside my window, a comforting presence.

As a spiritual practitioner, I believe that animals crossing our paths hold significance, serving as messengers of higher wisdom. The hummingbird embodies strength, perseverance, and healing. I now consider this bird one of my spiritual guides, supporting my journey toward recovery.

What animals resonate with you?

Animals can communicate with us in various ways, be it through dreams, songs, books, videos, or direct encounters. They often make bold appearances to capture our attention, especially when they recur in our lives.

If you suspect an animal may be serving as a guide, reflect on the lessons it imparts to better grasp its message.