Lessons from Geese

I'm not sure where this was originated; I got it from one of my professors during my first year in university. It's kinda cool and true... and I keep thinking about drafting and group rides when I read it. I am sure people will get different things from it :)

As each goose flaps its wings it creates an 'uplift' for the birds that follow. By flying in a 'V' formation, the whole flock adds 71% extra flying range. Lesson: People who share a sense of community can help each other get where they are going more easily... because they are travelling on the trust of one another.

When a goose falls out of formation it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back to take advantage of the lifting power of the birds in front. Lesson: If we have much sense as geese we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others.

When the head goose tires, it drops back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position. Lesson: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks. We should respect and protect each other's unique range of skills, capabilities, talents and resources.

The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up with their speed. Lesson: We need to make sure our honking is encouraging. In groups where there is encouragement, production is much greater. Individual empowerment results from quality honking. When a goose gets sick, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. Lesson: If we have as much sense as geese we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong.