Zain loved birds very much. He watched them and observed their activities. One day, he noticed that a pair of robins had made a nest in his apartment’s balcony, behind the outer unit of the AC. He was very excited. Now, his favourite activity was to watch and observe them as they came and improved their nest.

Soon, he noticed that the birds had laid eggs. He was extremely happy to see the tiny eggs in the nest. Out of excitement, he took the eggs out and showed them to others.

Zain thought that soon there would be hatchlings. But to his shock, the birds started leaving the nest and making a new one. Along with the nest, they also left the eggs behind.

He thought, “I always clean the nest and the eggs, and I keep food in front of it so the birds don’t have to leave to find food or water. But still, after so much effort, the bird left the nest.”

He felt sad and disappointed, so he discussed the issue with his father. After thinking for a while, his father answered, “Son, the bird left the nest not because something was lacking in your care, but because you were overcaring. Also, know that the moment you touch them, they sense a different smell and feel insecure. So they don’t recognise their eggs or chicks, and leave them.

Just remember, by watering a plant excessively, you are not giving it life, you are rotting its roots. The same thing happened with these birds. You did what was needed out of care, but you also did unnecessary things that made the birds leave the nest.”

Zain was heartbroken. He understood his mistake. Even though it was done out of love, it taught him an important lesson. Not everything needs our constant attention. Sometimes, the best way to care is to step back and let things be.

Published in Dawn, Young World, May 2nd, 2026