I watched the movie, “Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill” a few nights ago.  It is the true story of a San Francisco man, living off of the generosity of his neighbors, searching for meaning and purpose for his life.  He’s a street musician of sorts, although seems to have missed his calling there.  And he ends up becoming an observer of the parrots on Telegraph Hill near his home (a run down cottage that he “borrows” for many years).  His observations turn systematic and he begins to document the behavior of the flock of parrotts and names each of the birds (there are about 45 in all and the flock is growing).  He is attached to the birds, cares for them in a respectful, dignified way–always allowing them their freedom to choose the wild.  There are some poignant scenes towards the end as the audience sees how he communicates with the birds, how he sends his good byes when it’s time for him to leave.  Without intending to show us how one communicates with animals, he shows us how.  Just as without intending to find his life purpose, he does by simply paying attention to his surroundings, becoming curious and engaged with his environment.  He becomes an expert and advocate for the parrots in an urban environment preoccupied with “more pressing” issues.

The story reminds me of how we often work hard to “get it right,” to find our calling, to find our purpose.  And most of the time the answers are in front of us, around us–if only we take the time to notice.