A Different Perspective

We went to visit my stepson Arthur, his wife Alyssa, and our grandson Aaron this weekend in Green Bay. We are grateful for safe travels and the enjoyable time together, as well as being there for Arthur’s birthday yesterday. We always appreciate Aaron’s excitement to see us, and taking in experiences with his curiosity and questions.

One such experience this weekend was a trip to the NEW Zoo in Suamico. We saw all kinds of animals and birds. The list includes peacocks, whooping cranes, Canada geese, a moose, penguins, an alligator, prairie dogs, a red panda, snowy owls, an injured and rescued badger named Helen, cotton-top tamarins, porcupines, and more.

My favorites were the giraffes. I was reminded of these interesting facts:

-Giraffes and humans both have a total of 206 bones in their bodies.

-Just like human fingerprints, giraffes are unique. No two giraffes have the same coat pattern.

-A giraffe’s neck is shorter than its front legs. As a result, a giraffe must awkwardly spread or bend its front legs to reach the ground for a drink of water.

The giraffes were inside during our visit, but could exit a very tall, rather skinny door to the outdoors. I enjoyed watching these creatures, and also watching others watch them, like Aaron. Fascinating animals with a different take on the world around them and a different perspective from their vantage point.

A fresh perspective from a new vantage point. That is what each day offers. That is what living gratefully creates for us. Opportunities for experiences we have never had before, or emotions we haven’t felt so deeply, or perhaps awe that pervades our being.

Even if each of these opportunities are only moments, our hearts, bodies, minds, and souls are better for them.

What would help bring fresh perspective to your day? To a challenging situation? To a mundane activity? Look up. Look down. Look out to the horizon when you step outside. Experience a different perspective and be energized by it.