By Brett Cafferty
Back in 2009, my daughter and I took a road trip together to attend a family wedding in Western New York. We first drove to Northern Virginia where my brother lived to join up with him and his daughter, then the four of us (two dads and our teenage daughters) “shuffled off to Buffalo” via a zigzagged route through Pennsylvania.
The weekend adventure in a quaint, off-season ski village was an absolute blast with a traditional “northern” wedding – dinner, drinks, music, and dancing until the wee hours – a great time with our extended family.
The next morning, a group of us walked a few blocks to a Sunday brunch diner. My daughter and niece, who had been lagging behind, came alongside to state, “Dad! There is this older guy following us… when we turn, he turns. When we cross the street, he does too… and we are getting a little freaked out!” I turned around, saw who it was, and while laughing at the situation told them, “That’s your Uncle Jeff!” Jeff, who lives in Michigan so we don’t see him as much, is a steady and thoughtful guy and was simply “bringing up the rear” while watching out for the flock. It’s an important role!
Ducks often lead from the front, and it’s the duckling’s job to keep up. An article I read stated that out of 10-12 ducklings, only 1-2 may survive to adulthood as they are easy prey. In certain environments, a mother duck may change and lead from the rear to keep an eye on the flock, often with a much higher survival rate. Interesting.
Geese, on the other hand, raise and care for their young together. When the mother goose is with the goslings, the father goose is nearby as a sentry to watch for threats. When on the ground or in flight, one leads and one brings up the rear. Both roles are vital.
Perhaps a little reminder from nature… there are times to lead from the front – establish the direction, be the first to step or go forward, and to set an example for those you wish to have follow. And, there are times to lead from the rear – encouraging and “nudging” others along, making sure no one gets forgotten or left behind and to be on watch for the good of the group. It’s not as obvious or recognized, but a vital role to fill, nevertheless.
Have a great holiday season!