Saint Francis of Assisi

I had a look this morning and I have written over 2,300 daily posts.  To me is it any wonder I am wondering what to write about today.
Originally I thought I could go through the dictionary one word at a time.  That would keep me in topics for years.  I decided instead to go through a book I have.  It is called “Speeches that changed the world.”  Goodness knows where I got it, but I do know why I would have kept it.  I do like things well written and lives that inspire, so I am very interested in what is said and who said it.
The first speech I am looking at was by St Francis of Assisi called “Sermon to the Birds.” It is from around 1220.  I knew absolutely nothing about him except he had an affinity with animals and called them brothers and sisters.  It was his influence I believe that inspired the blessing of animals at services.  Due in part to his influence the fourth of October became World Animal Day.  Apparently San Francisco shares his name.
His “Sermon to the Birds” to me is not outstanding in itself but what it expresses is to me needful.  It highlights many of the benefits many birds enjoy like flight, food, appropriate covering, air and shelter.
What seems to be being said is to not take benefits for granted.  Each thing is something to be grateful for.
Personally I can see why this is considered a bit of a classic.  For me it is not a matter of my rights, but my gifts.  I feel all I have has resulted from what I have been given in the first place.  I have no desire to take credit for, or hold on to, something as though it is mine.
I love the words of a song that say “this skin and bone is a rental.”  In many ways that expresses my outlook.
I know I have been given stuff.  I will enjoy it while I can.