Harold the duck was my beloved pet from 1991 to 1998. I had the privilege of raising him from the young age of only 4 days old. He was a sweet yellow fuzzy duckling when we started our lives together, and he went everywhere I did. He loved me sooo much, and I loved him!
Two weeks ago, Michael and I were cleaning out the basement when we encountered a very special box that contained Harold's feathers. I had saved them in the hopes of having Mom make a pillow with them someday. Unfortunately, though, a pillow never came to be because I didn't save enough, nor did I save the right kind. I had kept mostly flight feathers instead of the soft downy ones!
After touching them gently and retelling many stories of my beloved feathered friend, I told Mike that it was OK if we parted with them. I prepared to put the box in the trash.
But, just before I did, Mike suggested something else. To honor Harold, he suggested, we ought to set his feathers free in the yard. I thought this was a great idea, and so we sprinkled them around the new flowers that are poking up through the ground.
Now, every day when I walk out my kitchen door, I am reminded of Harold by seeing his precious feathers. Even though we've had snow and very strong winds, most of the feathers have stayed. This reminds me of the loyalty that Harold had for me. Even if he was out of his cage, we never had to worry about him wandering off. We were his greatest joy, and he only wanted to be near the back door in the hopes that we would let him in!
The other day, when I was over at church, I spotted one of Harold's distinct feathers on the lawn. One had blown across the street and had begun its journey. I smiled.
Harold, you will never be forgotten. Thank you for the joy and companionship you brought into my young life. I love you and always will!
