Into the woods v.3 - no really this time

I am sitting here in the woods. No really. I can't remember the last time I walked alone but my usual companions are sick, soaking wet and at school. Not all three, you understand. One each.

I am sitting and considering the nature of peace. And connection. And how those two can work together instead of one destroying the other. Yes I'm distracting myself from thinking about Jackson's imminent passing and my role in it but my heart beats with nothing else.

Sitting here, all I can hear is bird calls and the stream at my feet. And then, on cue, the crowscarer in a nearby field fires off like a bomb. So often man's role in nature is Destroyer.

The wildlife either ignore it or startle, run and then settle again. This seems like a good plan. The only plan.

Today I am past startled, past running (almost) and ready to settle, preparing to do what needs to be done and be proud to do so.

I am looking for peace and connection.