“Be careful how you interpret the world:  It is like that.”

— Erich Heller

This morning, above the din of the city, I heard an owl hoot.

It was quiet and distant, nearly drowned out by traffic. At first, I thought it was imagined. So I waited, and sure enough, patience was rewarded with a few more hoots.

It’s not common to hear an owl in the city. But like all animals that dwell among us, they are always there. Quiet and unassuming. Surrounding us. Always there for someone to notice. If they’re listening.

Maybe that’s like the good things of the world. The good deeds. The kind acts. One person helping another. They’re always there. Quiet and unassuming. Dwelling among us. Surrounding us. Always there for someone to notice. If they’re listening.

I wonder what would happen if we spent more time listening for the owls.

Yesterday’s gift of time … Much homework help over the last few days, teacher emails, help to keep a struggling child going. A child who’s doing her best, but is a bit lost amongst the din.