| It is in moments like these where the lines between the world we construct around ourselves and the natural world begin to fade that I can again see how closely bonded we are to everything around us. These moments though only fleeting remain as lasting impressions which constantly remind me why I have chosen to study the natural world. Without such moments it's no wonder so many people feel detached and frightened by the life that surrounds them. As I write down these thoughts a yellow warbler has chosen to perch beside me in a birch tree and just as suddenly departs as the winds shift the tree beneath it. It has stayed but for an instant but has no less of an impact on the casual observer who has noticed its passing. When the golden flutter of its wings has ceased will it be no longer as miraculous as in life? As it again fades back into the earth will the brilliance of its plumage not again be reformed into another creature just as stunning? For in death there is life and in life there is the possibility of an instant of ephemeral beauty and everlasting connection between all things. If only for a moment ever passing then let that moment be remembered. |
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