Independence: Both Cole and the sparrow are initially portrayed as independent and self-sufficient. Cole acts tough and loner, while the sparrow is an orphaned baby bird attempting to survive on its own.
Trauma and Vulnerability: Cole has experienced various traumas in his life, including physical and emotional abuse, which have caused him to become hardened and angry. Similarly, the sparrow has experienced trauma by losing its parents and being left alone. Both characters are vulnerable deep down, despite their tough exteriors.
Lack of Nurturing: Cole has lacked proper nurturing and guidance in his life. He has not received the love and support necessary for emotional development. The sparrow, being an orphan, also lacks the nurturing and care that its parent birds would have provided.
Guidance and Transformation: In "Touching Spirit Bear," Cole is given the opportunity to encounter a spirit bear and begin a journey of transformation and healing. The sparrow also undergoes transformation as it grows and learns to adapt and persevere in the wild. Both Cole and the sparrow, through their respective experiences, experience a transformation and begin to find hope.
Resilience and Growth: Cole and the sparrow demonstrate resilience in their own ways. Cole shows determination in facing the challenges of living on an island, while the sparrow fights for survival and adjusts to its new circumstances. Both characters exhibit growth as they overcome obstacles and gain new insights about themselves.
Emotional Connections: Cole's relationship with the other characters, particularly Garvey and Peter, allows him to develop emotional connections. The sparrow, while lacking human interaction, forms a bond with Cole, showcasing the universal human emotional connection to nature.
Finding Purpose and Meaning: Both Cole and the sparrow find a sense of purpose and meaning through their journeys. Cole begins to understand his actions' consequences and strives for personal growth, while the sparrow finds its purpose in surviving and thriving.
In summary, while Cole and the sparrow are different characters from different species, they share parallels in their experiences of trauma, lack of nurturing, and a subsequent journey of transformation and growth. Their stories reflect the universal themes of resilience, emotional connection, and the possibility of finding purpose and meaning amidst challenging circumstances.