Like ancient warriors guarding their armies, the Cypress stand, unmoving, amid the waters of the bayou. Serving to remind all who venture among the denizens that the bayou sees all, and reclaims for its own use all that is lost.
The single chick looks out over its future domain, seeking signs that one of its parents approach with another meal. Soon, as it grows stronger with each meal, it will venture forth to begin its role as an apex predator in the bayou.
The sun rises over the Brickyard Bayou this morning, chasing the mists deeper into the canopy of the Oaks and Magnolias crowding the shores. Ever expanding ripples play upon the water's surface as the young Titmouse, Cardinals, and Buntings sing out their early morning calls for mates. Spring awakens and all the world seems fresh and new.
My observations have always led me to the same conclusion. The bayou is the perfect and most truthful embodiment of nature. No forgiveness is sought, nor given, in its being. It takes whatever it is given, cast off from elsewhere, and infuses us all with the most wondrous of beauty.
Cursed to know only hunger in its life, the alligator also realizes he needs the warmth from the sun to be fully able to conduct his work today. Blessed with amazing patience and an awe inspiring sense of timing, his size is the biggest asset his prey has. A perfect example of how nature cares not.
Mornings are important. Too often, we get caught in the challenges of life and forget that. We should take each new day to reflect on what has brought us this new day. The days past are gone, and nothing done today will change what was then. Reflect on the past, but, acknowledge it is only reflection. The new day brings new opportunities. Same as the river reflects, on calm days, the sky above, it also knows it can do nothing to change the sky.
The thick trees shield the bayou from the nearby city lights. As the east slowly brightens, the grand display of the Milky Way bids adieu to the Brickyard Bayou. Casting among the myriad stars all the cares I had yesterday, I embrace the coming of the new day as the sun chases the darkness of night away.
