Life, Laughter, and Lessons from Viral Ducks
For the last year or so, I’ve been on a mission. Not a top-secret one — but one that’s felt pretty intentional. I’ve been putting time, effort, and creativity into creating meaningful social media content. Stuff that adds value. Encourages people. Helps others live intentionally. Points people to Jesus. You know, real “let’s-make-the-world-a-better-place” kind of content.
And for reasons still unknown to me, the thing that blew up was... two ducks innocently walking down my street.
A fifteen-second video of two waddling ducks, featuring a spontaneous voiceover featuring some strong Midwest accents from Taylor and me, has now been viewed over 775,000 times and liked more than 50,000 times. I’ve hilariously gained hundreds of new followers — all because two disgruntled ducks waddled down my street and into my life.
People are tagging their friends. They're laughing. They're literally quoting the ducks.
The ducks!
I felt this strange mix of joy and slight personal offense. Like, Really? THAT’S the post that blows up? Not the one where I shared ten intentional rhythms for daily living? Not the reel where I talked about living your life to the fullest? Not the glimpses into my book writing journey?
But the ducks?
And yet... maybe there’s more to it than just two web-footed wanderers. So here’s what I’ve learned from Daryl and Carol:
1. Sometimes the greatest encouragement is just a moment of laughter.
Life is full of heavy things. Sometimes the best way to lift someone’s spirit isn’t a quote — it’s a ridiculous video of bickering birds. Laughter is encouragement. And it turns out, people really needed a laugh — especially in the midst of a last-minute surge from winter to stick around a bit longer.
2. Don’t take yourself too seriously.
If you’ve spent any time intentionally creating content for social media, you’ve probably worried about messing up the algorithm or drifting from my carefully curated “vibes.” But this video? It was pure fun. If you’re enjoying what you’re doing, chances are someone else will too. Let loose a little — you never know what might resonate. For me, social media is a big sandbox in which I get to try things out, take some creative risks, and have fun!
3. Even ducks are relatable.
Daryl and Carol didn’t know where they were going. They were cold, confused, and very clearly over it. And honestly? That’s a Monday mood if I’ve ever seen one. For whatever reason, I think we see ourselves in those aimless waddles from time to time. Desiring to be anywhere but where we are. In a rush to get somewhere we will eventually complain about, just like the last place. It’s time to embrace where we are — in the wise words of Daryl, “It’s just a little snow, Carol…”
4. God can even use ducks.
Hundreds of new followers found my page because of that silly video. And now? There is a chance they are going to hear the Gospel. They’ll be encouraged. Maybe even drawn closer to the life God has for them — all because of two sassy ducks and a voiceover recorded in a couple late-night takes. Wouldn’t that be something? If you don’t think God can use you, think again. God can even use a couple of ducks…
5. Always record the animals.
Let this be a public service announcement: If an animal walks by your house, record it. Don’t overthink it. Just point and shoot. And please, send it to us. We are now accepting all submissions for the ministry of animal-based content.
So yes, I’ll keep making meaningful content. But I’ll also keep laughing, keep recording the unexpected, and keep trusting that even the random stuff might be part of something bigger.
Because if God can use ducks... He can definitely use you, too.