I came across these interesting statistics about geese and in them found some wonderful examples of teamwork, care and encouragement, great lessons we can all apply to our lives and our community.

FACT 1 As each goose flaps its wings, it creates ‘uplift’ for the birds that follow. By flying in a ‘V’ formation the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.

LESSON People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going faster and easier because they are travelling on the thrust of one another.

FACT 2 When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.

LESSON We have to be willing to accept the help of others and give our help to others.

FACT 3 When the lead goose tires it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the front position

LESSON It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks. We should respect and protect each other's unique arrangement of skills, capabilities, talents and resources.

FACT 4 When a goose gets sick, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to the ground to help and protect it.

LESSON If we have as much sense as geese we will stand by each other in difficult times, as well as when we are strong.

FACT 5 Geese flying in formation 'HONK' to encourage those up front to keep up with their speed.

LESSON We need to make sure our honking is encouraging. In groups and teams where there is encouragement, production is much greater.

'Individual empowerment results from quality honking'

Those geese don’t look quite as silly now to you, do they!!

Jenni Forder

Pastoral Care Worker