kindness is free
I met Esther yesterday in Prospect Park while she was feeding young swans. I’ve learned that their parents cast out a group of young birds when they had grown enough. Due to cold weather, the water hole has gotten smaller, and, given the swan’s territorial nature, those juveniles were left to die without food or a safe place to hide from predators. We had a beautiful conversation with Esther. I donated some money I had on me and left. If you see her around the park, stop by to say hi to her and chip in some cash, folks, she’d be very happy! #wildlife #prospectpark #brooklyn #swan #nyc
Spending time in Prospect Park can be a truly eye-opening experience, especially when you encounter acts of kindness like that of Esther, who dedicates her time and resources to feeding young swans left vulnerable by their parents. These juvenile swans often face harsh conditions as shrinking water holes force them out of their safe spaces, exposing them to predators and starvation. From my personal experience visiting urban parks, I have found that many local wildlife species silently struggle during extreme weather changes or environmental pressures. What struck me most about Esther’s story is the reminder that even small gestures—like feeding abandoned birds or making a modest donation—can ripple out into meaningful change. It’s inspiring to see community members take initiative to protect and care for wildlife right in the heart of a bustling city like New York. If you ever visit Prospect Park, consider keeping an eye out for these young swans and people like Esther who help them. Offering a friendly hello, a bit of spare change, or volunteering to assist could contribute significantly to the welfare of these animals. Acts of kindness don’t just help wildlife survive; they foster a deeper connection between city dwellers and the natural world around them. And as the phrase goes, kindness is free—yet its impact is priceless.