Geese

In the fall when you see geese in a "V" formation, heading back south for the winter, you might be interested to know why they fly that way. Scientist have learned that as each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock adds at least 71% flying range more than if each bird was on it's own.

Basic Truth #1: Those who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly and easily because they travel on the thrust of one another's effort.

Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels a drag and air resistance from trying to go it alone. It quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front.

Basic Truth #2: If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those headed the same way as we are.

When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back in the wing and another flies point.

Basic Truth #3: It pays to take turns on hard jobs-for people as for south-bound geese.

The geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep their speed.

Basic Truth #4: We need to be careful of what we say when we honk from behind.

Finally, when a goose gets sick, or is wounded by gunshot and falls out, two geese fall out of formation and follow it down to provide help and protection. They stay with it until it is either able to fly or is dead, then set back out to catch up with the flock, flying on their own or with another group.

Final Truth: If we have the sense of a goose, we will always stand by one another.