An Observant Perch

Three times in the last week, I have driven past an eagle, perched on the same utility pole near the highway I am traveling on as I commute to work. I am on this road in the mornings because of road construction on my usual route.

If that eagle could speak, what would it tell us at it looks down at the road, at humans rushing past in our metal and plastic boxes on wheels? Maybe it has eyes on some prey. There are no trees within hundreds of yards, so a nest isn’t evident. Why that pole and a similar time of the day?

What strikes me most about this majestic creature as I drive by is how still it is. Full pause mode. Naturally. Perched, but ready. Humans have lost this ability to hit full pause mode. It comes less naturally in our modern world. Yet, it is no less necessary.

A perch is defined as a resting place or a vantage point. I considered how this applies to my day:

-Perched, pen in hand, to write fresh gratitudes in my journal. A pause, and then words flow.

-Perched over my coffee cup and bowl of oatmeal–ready to enjoy, nourish my body, get a little caffeine. A grateful pause for all who helped bring this breakfast to me.

-Perched over the sink, brushing my teeth. Another grateful pause for the ease of running water, and for dental care that has preserved my teeth.

-Perched over my computer composing this post. A thoughtful pause, then the next phrase reveals itself.

-Perched, camera phone ready, over this hydrangea blossom in our yard. Drinking in the fragrance and the intricate design. A pause in awe and wonder, then a photo captured.

Resting places and vantage points make all the difference in how we see the world around us. Choose yours wisely.