What the Blue Jay Asked

I wonder how taken you were this morning when the shade of night was lifted and the sun began its ascent, just over the horizon. 

Did you watch its arc and feel the blessings and possibilities that the day held for you?

We awoke to accompany the moment, our diverse chorus welcoming you and cheering you on.

Did you take notice when the day was done; leaving a quiet and gentle trace as the light slowly dissolved into its blanket of dusk?  And then —

— dark. 

The birds stilled, the flowers and leaves closed quietly. Dreams beckoned.  

I pray you took notice.

I know you took notice of the eclipse; that once-every-so marvel that had so many of you looking up. 

Parties, festivals and concerts.  

Live broadcasts and breaking news, the onslaught of traffic and exhaust. 

All that merchandise-turned-to-garbage for someone else to sweep away. 

I know you think little of me.  You believe me to be cruel to the others.   Go ahead and cast your stone.

Are you more kind?

Why do you marvel at the darkness that shrouded us all in the middle of the day — when you so easily dismiss the light that tries, day after day, to give you hope?