Beauty in Unexpected Places
Last weekend, I went camping by myself to the Great Salt Plains in Northern Oklahoma. Having visited a few times (most notably with my children to dig for selenite crystals), I knew this unique spot in the world to be a resting stop for migrating birds.
So, I picked a quiet campsite for my one night retreat for solitude and renewal. On an evening hike by the spillway, I saw many types of ducks, sandpipers, cranes, and…pelicans? I did not expect to see pelicans.
Pelicans are truly fascinating birds. First of all, they are enormous! Far from an ornithological expert, I could still appreciate their 8-9 foot wingspan and long beak, seemingly as long as my arm! On a hike out by the lake the next day, I spotted 70-80 of these striking creatures resting prior to the next leg of their journey.
So, this getaway provided much of what I expected: campfire, quiescence, reflection, star-filled sky, 28 degree night in a tent, smores, as well as time to read and journal and hike. But, what I remember the most is what I didn’t expect: pelicans.
May you find beauty in unexpected places this week as well.
Worth Repeating
Sometimes when we pray for guidance, we’re guided in unexpected directions.
-Julia Cameron
