The Thorn Bird

“There is a legend about a bird which sings just once in its life, more sweetly than any other creature on the face of the earth. From the moment it leaves the nest it searches for a thorn tree, and does not rest until it has found one. Then, singing among the savage branches, it impales itself upon the longest, sharpest spine. And, dying, it rises above its own agony to outcarol the lark and the nightingale. One superlative song, existence the price. But the whole world stills to listen, and God in His heaven smiles. For the best is only bought at the cost of great pain… Or so says the legend.” ― Colleen McCullough, The Thorn Birds

Watching the series as a young child years after it originally came out is probably why I've always dreamed of religious symbols. Also why my Mom needed to explain when I proclaimed loudly at the mall that I was going to be a Nun with 12 kids and didn't need a man, she explained we're not catholic so better plan other life goals.