I have learnt a few things from the chickens in our coop over the years; a chicken run and its citizens are a messy, muddy microcosm. Here is what I have discovered, in no particular order: Who's the boss? Well, size is not what counts, it's attitude. Our largest and oldest rooster is currently winding down his days in the chicken hospital/nursery/hospice. Always a gentle soul, he could quash any hen argument with a glance. That being said: Love your neighbour. Living close to anybody is hard. Regardless of whether they look like you or don't, your neighbours need to be tolerated, respected even appreciated. Our differences are what keep us interesting. Which leads us to: Stay busy. Whether you are pecking scratch, chopping firewood, laying eggs or writing your thesis, it's important to keep at it. Moving keeps you up; being idle makes you low. Get to it! Also though: Rest when you can. It's important to get down time, relaxation and sleep. Standing in the sunlight can be quite rejuvenating, sitting in a dusty hole is good for what ails you, especially between meal times. And so: There is enough for everyone. Sharing can be difficult, especially where food is concerned. Still it's better to take a little and go back for more than taking too much. There's always more feed/food, so chill. Which brings us to: Mama/Papa knows best. She has been where you are right now and even if she hasn't, she knows someone who has. If not, he'll tell you so listen, you might learn something. And lastly, do your best. Again, it's not the size of the egg that counts, it's the quality. As my husband would say, you only get out of something what you put into it....
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