Stumpy’s Boy (11/19/2025)

A few years back, I noticed what I thought was a bunny outside my porch. But when that bunny started to climb a tree, I realized it wasn’t a bunny but rather a squirrel with no tail. I watched that unique critter daily. I mentioned him to the neighbors who had also noticed him. The young girl two houses down had actually given him a name, Stumpy. It stuck. We all started calling him Stumpy.

As I said, I watched for him and celebrated his accomplishments despite his having no tail. In school, I’d learned that “the different” don’t always fare well in nature. I was fascinated by how he held his own in the squirrel community and seemed to be thriving. More than once I caught myself talking to him as he sped past my porch with another squirrel chasing after him.

Then this past year, Stumpy disappeared. I realized early in the spring that he wasn’t among the daily members of the animal kingdom who graced my yard. But I kept watch thinking maybe he’d show up. But he never did.

A few weeks ago, though, I noticed a squirrel in my yard with a tiny tail, no longer than a couple of inches. And I rejoiced. I’d lost Stumpy, but I maybe this was his son.  I’m calling him Little Bit. I’m putting my money on Little Bit. I can tell as he sprints by with a nut in his mouth chased by another squirrel that he has his dad’s spirit.

Stumpy and Little Bit remind me that life this side of the sod isn’t always perfect and that none of us is perfect either. They also reminded me of the wonders of creation and the greatness of our Creator who created a diverse universe yet calls its members to unity. Stumpy and Little Bit also remind me that adversity exists but not to let it dictate the outcome. I know they are only squirrels, but the LORD has used odder instruments to teach me lessons along the way.

As we journey in this life, I pray that we all can learn to live well in the wonder of the world our loving LORD created. I pray that we all can draw upon the strengths and gifts and graces the LORD weaves within our being and reach our potential. I pray that we don’t allow the differences among us to separate us. And I pray that always and everywhere we are able to be the ones He created us to be, His daughters and sons, and the ones He calls us to be, His disciples, each unique yet in unity.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.