The life of a goose is not so easy

While it may seem that the life of a goose is relatively simple and easygoing, I think it comes at a price. A pretty high price if you ask me. The other day as I walked out of work for lunch, I was texting and walking (not nearly as dangerous or as illegal in some places as driving and texting), when just as I walked around the corner I almost stepped on a goose that was sitting there, hanging out. It returned my imminent crushing with a hiss like no other. Not only did it hiss, but it also stuck its tongue out and perked its head up, much like a snake would do. Since I wasn’t looking where I was going, and having heard a snake’s hiss, I naturally jumped back and was pretty startled. For this reason I say that the life of a goose is not so easy.

As I was walking up the stairs to work today I noticed the usual two geese hanging out on the ledge flower bed. And then I noticed the broken egg laying on the ground, and it seemed one of them were staring at it in disbelief. I’m not sure who or what broke the egg on the ground, but it was a good five feet away from the ledge, clearly showing intent on someone’s part. And for this reason I say that the life of a goose is not so easy.

And then there is the obvious issues in the life of a goose: jet engines and airplane props… need I say more?

I sometimes think about how animals have life pretty easy when compared to humans: no money worries, no stress from the job, no hangovers in the morning. But then I think about the veracity of nature, survival of the fittest, and the impending death right around the corner for almost all living creatures. In comparison, we probably have it pretty good sitting atop the food chain.

So, the next time you see a goose crossing the road and get annoyed as it takes its time with a blatant disregard for our schedule, remember that it could be worse: you could get sucked into a jet engine, or trampled on as someone turns the corner.

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