I am nearing the end of a visit to my Grandfather’s house. My aunt is living in it now.

My Grandfather was always one to take care of the birds. As far back as I can remember he has always put bird food out religiously. I heard that he once said if I take care of the birds, St. Francis will take care of me.

He lived to be just 3 months shy of his 100th birthday.

St. Francis became afflicted with Stigmata.

Two years before the death of St. Francis, on September 14th, 1224.

His was the first reported case of stigmata.

My Grandfather’s birthday was September 14th, and Sarah’s Birthday was also September 14th.

I spent a lot of hours at this house after my father died just watching the birds. Some years later I would spend more hours watching the birds from the kitchen table when my Grandfather died. The vantage point seen in these pictures below.

At the time I didn’t understand why it brought me comfort during those times, but now when I watch them I understand why it brings me comfort, and why St. Francis loved the birds so much.

It seems the dog enjoys watching them also. She does that a lot.

St. Francis sermon to the birds.

My little sisters, the birds, much bounden are ye unto God, your Creator, and always in every place ought ye to praise Him, for that He hath given you liberty to fly about everywhere, and hath also given you double and triple raiment; moreover He preserved your seed in the ark of Noah, that your race might not perish out of the world; still more are ye beholden to Him for the element of the air which He hath appointed for you; beyond all this, ye sow not, neither do you reap; and God feedeth you, and giveth you the streams and fountains for your drink; the mountains and valleys for your refuge and the high trees whereon to make your nests; and because ye know not how to spin or sow, God clotheth you, you and your children; wherefore your Creator loveth you much, seeing that He hath bestowed on you so many benefits; and therefore, my little sisters, beware of the sin of ingratitude, and study always to give praises unto God.