Buck-Cackle

Paul Tournier, a noted Swiss physician and author, once developed a kind of short-hand for the categories that psychiatrists and psychologists might use to organize their thoughts about various patients. He said that, in general, they could be loosely seen as pigeons and chickens. When confronted with a challenge, people who were pigeons organized themselves quickly to meet it (much as a pigeon you might come up on in the road will generally fly away). Chickens, on the other hand, tend to get panicked by oncoming forces, whether it be a car or some life challenge. They run about in all directions, often making decisions that hurt them.  Dr. Tournier pointed out that there was a problem with the people who work with the healing of the mind when they tend to see pigeons as well and chickens as needing help. He indicated that pigeons were often isolated. They didn’t have a sound feeling about what those around them were thinking and feeling. Chickens have a better sense of those around them.  I’ve lived with this dichotomy now for around 50 years and have come to the conclusion that I’m more of a chicken than a pigeon. The challenge for me often is to give myself time and settle down. Also, I must get over the estimation that I should be more of a pigeon. I’m just not.  What does this have to do with a craft oriented mind? Many times I meet problems or challenges. Invariably, I am at first overwhelmed. Should I try this or that? Can I just brush the problem under the rug by making some quick, uninformed decision? What would a pigeon do here? The answer for me is to echo my call (buck-cackle) and move on as I can and should. You may be a pigeon or a chicken. Just remember, each has its weaknesses and strengths. Be yourself in your craft.