Tracks

I remember a conversation on Sesame Street a long time ago.

Ernie wanted to show Bert his work of art.

Ernie said it was a picture of a cow eating grass.

Bert looked at the sheet perplexed.  "But, Ernie," he said, "there's nothing on the paper."

"Well sure, Bert," said Ernie, "the cow ate all the grass and then she left."

One of the neat things about winter is you can see that cow's tracks after it moves out of frame.

It's not that you can't find evidence of deer, rabbit, squirrel, foxes, and other critters during the spring, summer, and fall... it's just that their presence seems more tangible in winter.

The tracks are proof they are among us.  Even in the midst of the city it's not just us humans.

I remember seeing in the southeast section of Indianapolis a family of foxes early in the morning in front of Lutheran High School.  No doubt the rabbits, squirrels, and field mice made their den near the retention pond feel like home.

More than a quick glance of a rabbit hopping past; the tracks left behind by the bunny are it's own "John Hancock."

There is a comfort in seeing our animal friends. 

Whether it's watching the majestic eagles flying over the Wisconsin River in Prairie du Sac; or the wet and bedraggled raccoon looking for a dry place in the midst of an icy rain; that connection prompts a pause; reflection; and wonder at the beauty and connectedness we have with the world around us.

Before the snow all goes away... it's time for track hunting. 

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