Wednesday, March 7, 2007

Parrot Talking


Lead your life so you wouldn't be ashamed to sell the family parrot to the town gossip.- Will Rogers.
I ran across this quote and it instantly brought back memories of an African Grey Parrot we brought to the USA from Dakar, Senegal, West Africa. He was named Dak after the city in which he was purchased. This parrot quickly stole our hearts with his constant talking. He imitated everyone in the family including barking like the family dog. My Mother has a very hysterical, loud laugh and she doesn't believe her laugh is so big. But........Dak had it down. He would get to laughing like my Mother and the whole house would soon be in an uproar. Of course, Dak would say many different phrases, sing songs, and even mimic household noises such as the beep of the microwave. After more than 20 years in the family, Dak finally went to parrot heaven. We had a proper burial and cried. He is dearly missed. Well, I guess you understand Will Rogers quote is true. If you don't want to be embarrassed, don't let strangers talk to your parrot.

6 comments:

  1. Hi, Helen. This past Wednesday night Bible study, the pastor spoke from the book of James and mentioned how the tongue is the unruly member of the body. It is imperative we guard our words.

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  2. I've never owned a parrot, but when I read this post, I thought about my kids when they were younger imitating a lot of the saints at church. It wasn't a mean spirited thing at all. They would just play a little game of "Guess who this is?" for mom and dad. It was amazing how they imitated the shout, preaching or praising of particular people down to a tee. It also helped me realize how much kids watch and hear things and how I need to guard my words and actions.

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  3. Carol - your comment is so true. Kids aren't given enough credit for how much they listen. They may be coloring, reading, or playing, but they don't miss much of what goes on in our adult world. Thanks for dropping by.

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  4. Enjoyed reading your story. I always look forward to reading your blog. Have a great day!

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  5. Oh, Jana, how true is this! There was an elderly couple who started coming to our church. He was a born-again sailor. They had two parrots. While Bro. and Sis. Maple were born again, the birds weren't. LOL When our pastor first went to visit them, the birds about embarrassed the life out of these dear people. *feeble grin* But, more importantly, we should be an example to our children! The DO repeat what they hear!! *smile* Your bird was so beautiful!

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  6. Debbie - thanks for dropping by. XO

    Jewel - That story is too funny!!! Sinner bird living in a Christian home! LOL

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