The other day, I spotted this lovely female hooded merganser floating in a stream. As she dove for food and bobbed back up, she appeared content…not a care in the world.
As I watched the merganser enjoying herself, I recalled a conversation I overheard in the post office. An older gentleman was lamenting about how life had changed, and how he wished to return to the good old days...when life was easy and enjoyable.
I’m not quite sure when the good old days were, but I do understand that feeling of overwhelm. So many challenges in our world…and constant demands on our time and attention. Sometimes it’s too much to take in.
A friend once shared something I still find helpful, especially when I feel overwhelmed. He advised me to step back, breathe, and do only what was right in front of me to do. Nothing more.
And then I had a flash of realization…that’s what the merganser was doing. Her only concern was finding lunch, and nothing else. She wasn’t rehashing the past, or plotting her future, or fretting about what her merganser friends might be thinking about her. She was completely present in that moment. And she was content.
So much wisdom...I thank the merganser and my friend for the reminder to stay present and aware.
I’m so grateful for this lifetime, with all its gifts and challenges. And in my heart of hearts, I know that no matter what happens, these are my good old days…
(New photos on website Gallery: wandernature.com/new-photos)