Very early this morning, I was fortunate enough to be awake and outside at the barn to greet the new day. Employing the term "morning" conjures up a vision of a beautiful sunrise but I am speaking of one a.m.. No sun, but on a cold, clear night, a celestial ceiling of billions of stars spanned endlessly overhead. It would have been so easy to keep my head down and trudge to the barn, do my chores under roof, and pull up my hood and trudge back to the house, never engaging in nature. But I chose to make a special effort to stop, look and listen to all that was unfolding around me. The stars provided a visual main feature. The sounds of coyotes howling and barking came from down in the hollow across the road, providing the chorus. They were joined by dogs all over the neighborhood, most distant but some as close as next door. Even farther off in the distance, the occasional sound of howling semi-truck tires on the highway blended in harmony. The tinkling sound of water from the drainage pipe under the driveway falling into the creek provided the rhythm. Behind me the sounds of my old boy munching on his hay brought a feeling of comfort that all was well. The presence of Bubby and Bear by my side confirmed that I was safe and protected. The chill of the cold air was just enough to heighten my senses without being uncomfortable enough to distract me. I stayed for a little while, appreciating all that was presented to me. It is far to easy to take all these things for granted so I make the effort to enjoy them when I can. Someday I may not have that opportunity, but for now I will seize the day.
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