I can only say that if you’re meant to meet, you’re meant to meet.
This was a meeting at sea. No, not the existential “being at sea” kind as in feeling forlorn. This was the real, rolling, ocean-type sea. Nothing in sight but sky, clouds and waves.
You’re in a 22-foot fishing boat named “Up on a Plane” with your brother and a friend about 20 miles offshore. It’s the Atlantic, mid-way down the Florida coast. You’ve had a good catch and are heading home. Out of thin (or moist) air a pigeon lands on the outboard motor.
What do you do? Shoo him away?
Well, not if you’re Brian.
Instead, you pick him up, give him water… That is what Brian did that day.
Brian wrapped “Randy 297” (leg band ID) in a towel, gave him water to sip (“He was so thirsty!”) and provided a comfortable ride back to land.
Randy 297 was far from shore and exhausted.
This may have been his only chance to rest.
Back at the dock, you secure the boat… Randy the pigeon takes off. Or does he?
You take photos of the very large fish you’ve caught. Typically you hold up the gigantic ex-sea life and smile.
Brian’s rescued friend, the pigeon, decides to get in on the celebration.
Here he is, sitting on Brian’s shoulder for the pic.
If you’re meant to meet…
I love your story!
Years ago I wrote a song “Angel Seagulls” that was taken from a “true” story which reminds me of your story.
Best,
Kay Williamson
In a time where greed and mean spiritness seems to be everywhere, along comes Brian. What a lovely story!
Brian is my new Hero! Thanks for writing and sharing this great story.
A pigeon must desire to be rescued before he will allow capture.