A bird in the hand is worth a look

bird in the hand

A bird in the hand is worth a look

It was a sunny day. And it was also the middle of Spring. The task was finding a used automobile. There were certain requirements for the new prospect. For example, above average fuel mileage, and four doors. The age wasn’t as important as how well maintained the vehicle was. Therefore, it had become a time consuming search.

Until there was success. It wasn’t the sharpest looking vehicle. Nor was it a newer model. In fact, it was almost a relic from the past. However, it had many of the things on the wish list. Like good fuel mileage. Its location was in an unlikely place. In a row of cars at a local used car lot. This was strange because finding a good deal at a used car lot is often hit or miss.

And this one was a good possibility. Upon further inspection there were a few drawbacks but nothing too concerning. It was a used vehicle, after all. However, it appeared to be the most likely candidate. While studying the likely candidate, a car lot salesman came along to offer assistance. The discussion was light and friendly. After a few moments the subject of the asking price came up. Now it was time to decide.

A bird in the hand

There is an old saying. Furthermore, it summarized this situation nicely. It is a lesson that applies to a situation like this one. Additionally the saying is simple, yet profound: A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. If it doesn’t ring a bell, it is an older proverb. Similarly it has become a thing of the past. However, its lesson is as relevant in today’s world, as it ever was in the old.

bird in the hand

The vehicle was a rare find. It had many of the things that mattered. And under ordinary circumstances that would have been enough. But, there were two other vehicles to view, in another part of the city. Both of which promised similar results. With this in mind, it felt like a good idea to look there before making a final decision.

When making big decisions that lead to big purchases, prudence is key. With one final look at the rare find, it was time to go look at the other possibilities. The first one was easy to turn down. The advertisement read, in good condition. It wasn’t. In fact, repairs would be the first major expense for the new owner. Furthermore the second prospect was no better. It looked like the first opportunity, was the best opportunity.

Worth a Look

Back at the first vehicle, things were a little scarce. In fact, it was no longer there. While taking the time to go look at the other two vehicles, the first one sold to another buyer. Not only were the other two vehicles not right, but also the first one, was no longer available.

The bird in the hand, was no longer there. As it turns out, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. The first vehicle was as close as possible to the ideal setup. Settling on it, while there with it, would have secured it. But while looking to see if the other two were better deals, everything changed. Coming away empty handed was the result. Sometimes there’s more than a kernel of truth in those old sayings. Thanks for reading today.


Thank you for reading! Like, follow and share The Frog Journal on X @1finja1 – and on The Frog Journal Facebook page click here. Subscribe to the free newsletter to stay up to date on new content and updates.