Backyard Visitor

I am participating in the March Slice of Life Story Challenge. Thanks to the co-authors of              Two Writing Teachers for creating this  supportive community.

 

Father Hawk stretches wide his wings.

You stretch your arms as Mars rises red in the sky.

(from Hawk Rising by Maria Gianferrari with illustrations by Brian Floca)

I stood by the door to the back yard sipping my coffee. Early morning light danced on the horizon, creating shadows on the snow-covered grass. I watched the sparrows and chickadees play at the feeder, then I noticed something else.

What was that large form on the low branch of the maple? I wondered. Then I saw it turn its head ever so slightly.

An owl? Too big.

A vulture? Not the right color.

A hawk? Most likely.

Before I could grab my binoculars to investigate more closely, she spread her wings, leaped from her perch, and was off, climbing higher and higher. I marveled at her beauty and power. I’ve noticed hawks flying high in the sky, but can’t recall seeing one so close to the house, and right in my backyard!

The next day, I noticed her again. Could she be after the many squirrels that scamper through the yard? Perhaps the birds? Or is there something deeper involved in her presence? Of course I did a little research and discovered that hawks are sometimes thought to be spiritual messengers. Observing them could be a call to see things from a higher perspective, to expand my knowledge and wisdom. Whatever it is, I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to observe this natural beauty from a closer perspective.

I’ll be looking for her again.