26/09/2023
As a dedicated visual content creator with a profound passion for photography and an unending love for nature, I embarked on a quest to capture a mesmerizing moment that had been a daily occurrence, a gift from the natural world. It was a spectacle that graced my mornings, a group of pristine white birds gracefully gliding by, almost like clockwork.
This enchanting avian ballet, so meticulously choreographed, left an indelible mark on my soul.
On the morning of September 24, 2023, around the hours of 7:52 AM or thereabout, I seized the opportunity to immortalize this remarkable sight. My decision to do so was not merely driven by a desire to document but also to pay homage to the incredible unity and serenity with which these avian companions moved.
Reflecting on my childhood in the warm embrace of nature, I recalled the playful moniker we assigned to these birds in the Yoruba language - "le ke le ke." As they traversed the skies, children, like myself, would joyfully chant, "le ke le ke gba mi le ke." The meaning behind these words remained a mystery, but one universal truth prevailed - these birds occasionally bestowed their blessings upon us in the form of unexpected droplets landing on our hands, heads, or attire. To some, this was a divine benediction, a sign of favor from the heavens.
To others, especially those dressed for work or school, it could be disconcerting, disrupting the morning routine. The interpretation, it seemed, was as unique as the individual experiencing it.
Armed with my camera and a heart full of reverence for both nature and tradition, I embarked on this photographic endeavor. My lens captured not just a fleeting moment but a profound connection between humanity and the natural world. This image, now preserved for eternity, serves as a testament to the beauty of life's serendipitous moments and the intricate tapestry of culture and nature that weaves its way into our hearts.
In this photograph, you glimpse a flock of white birds soaring gracefully through the morning sky, a harmonious ballet orchestrated by nature herself. Their wings, like gossamer, catch the early light, illuminating their pure, pristine beauty. These "le ke le ke" birds evoke nostalgia, echoing the joyful chants of children and the simplicity of a bygone era. Whether their gentle blessings bring smiles or sighs, they remain a reminder of the enchanting dance between tradition and the natural world.
This photograph is a window into that world, an enduring memory of a moment worth holding onto.
