Six months ago, a local wildlife rescue organization, Whispering Willow Wild Care, brought their inspiring exhibit of birds of prey to Living Resources Acquired Brain Injury program, offering both educational enrichment and a meaningful connection to nature. All the program participants were captivated by the impressive array of raptors, including majestic ravens, magnificent owls, powerful hawks, and chatty crows. All who attended the program were moved by the stories of the birds that were rehabilitated after sustaining life threatening injuries, and one was inspired to act.

Jim was so moved by the stately birds last summer that he spent many months drawing their portraits, using photographs as reference for his art. He carefully recreated the likenesses of Hinon the broad-winged hawk, Sweet Leonore the raven, and Hamlet the barred owl with amazing detail.

When Joyce Perry, owner of Whispering Willow and her assistant Joanne returned to Living Resources this month to showcase a new set of raptors, they never imagined the surprise in store for them. Jim presented them with his art work, in large, beautiful frames. To say the gifts were well-received is an understatement. Joanne said, “These are our favorite birds and he is an amazing artist. This was a really nice thing that he did for us!” Joyce agreed adding that she was going to make arrangements to hang the artwork in their rehabilitation room where all the staff can enjoy them.

Kudos to Jim for not only creating these impressive works of art, but generously sharing his talents with the team from Whispering Willow. Thanks to the Living Resources instructors who nurture the skills of all who take part in our Brain Injury Program. And much gratitude to the staff at Whispering Willow Wild Care for not only providing close-up encounters with these apex predators, but showcasing the powerful reminder of the resilience and recovery possible for all beings, whether they have wings and are at home in the sky, or arms, making their homes on the earth.