In the southern part of Canada, there is a type of Ruby-throated Hummingbird. It is only 3.5 inches in length, yet it is one of the largest energy-outputting warm-blooded animals. This little creature makes two trips each year from southern Canada all the way to Panama! Along the way, it must also fly across a stretch of sea that spans 500 miles.
During flight, it consumes a great deal of energy. Therefore, in order to replenish its energy and restore its strength, whenever it sees light, it will keep feeding. That’s why people often see this beautiful little bird gracefully flitting about among the flowers, feeding on insects and nectar. Most of its annual southward migration journey is relatively easy. However, when faced with a long stretch of open sea where there is nothing but water, it cannot afford to be without energy during those days!
Thus, to complete this final and longest leg of its journey, the hummingbird enters a state of hibernation on the night before departure. In this state, the energy required to maintain its body temperature is only about one-fifth of what it normally needs. It remains completely still, and even if you touch it, it won’t respond at all. Once the sun comes out and the weather warms up, the hummingbird awakens, takes its last sip of nectar, and then heads towards the sea, beginning its arduous 500-mile journey.
It is truly hard to imagine that such a small creature, only 3 inches in length, can continuously fly such a vast distance. The achievement of the hummingbird is simply one of nature's great wonders.
The secret behind the hummingbird’s miracle, as well as its wisdom for success, lies in actively storing energy and preparing thoroughly. By comparison, in our own life journeys, when facing great ideals and lofty goals, we often fall short due to insufficient preparation or lack of readiness, which results in either giving up halfway or failing just before achieving success. Therefore, looking towards the future, we must not only set lofty ambitions but also accumulate extraordinary talents, so that we may soar toward hope like the hummingbird.