THE LEGEND OF THE GOURDY BIRDS

       According to legend, and there are many that enrich the lives of those who live in the Adirondack Mountains, there was once a lake fed by hot springs in a remote section of the northern foothills.  Because the lake was fed by hot springs, it never froze, not even when winter temperatures would drop to forty below zero in the surrounding countryside.  In the very center of this remote lake, was a mist shrouded island.  The mist hid the island from any humans who might have become lost and happened upon the shores of the lake, and the warm water of the lake afforded the little island a much longer growing season which was perfect for growing large gourds.  It was not long before the prolific gourds became the dominant form of vegetation on this little island.  The birds that frequented the island realized the gourds were perfect vessels for drinking, storage, and nesting.

       After decades of using these gourds and eating the seeds, it became clear that the seeds of these gourds had almost magical properties.  The birds that ate so many of the gourd seeds began to evolve into rather whimsical creatures.  The one time normal birds began to develop gourd-like bodies and an eclectic mix of feathers.  Over time, it also became clear to these evolving Gourdy Birds, that the seeds in these gourds added an extra measure of compassion, patience, wisdom, and contentment to their lives on the island.

        Occasionally, a Gourdy Bird would find its way to the mainland and, being curious, would set off on an adventure to go where they could go and see what they could see.  It was in this way that the Gourdy Birds discovered humans and enjoyed being with them..   In time, humans realized they could honor a person with the gift of a Gourdy Bird on a birthday, a holiday, or just because that person was special.

However, it is most important that the chosen Gourdy Bird be asked if he or she would be willing to live with another human.  If the Gourdy Bird is willing, soon after the Gourdy Bird enters a new home and is put in just the right spot, the special magic of that particular species of  Gourdy Bird begins to affect the life of the one who begins to share time and space with the Gourdy Bird.