Outdoor Explorer

      I love going on walks with Bridger.  Our walks aren't for exercise.  On these walks Bridger takes the lead.  When he is outside he transforms into an explorer and an adventurer.  He has a sense of discovery and wonder as he hovers over and pokes at tiny ants on the sidewalk.  He notices, points at and says "What's that?" to all the things most of us would normally overlook. 

       He has a favorite spot that is by a flower garden. We spend at least five minutes there as he points to each of the flowers, one by one. He listens for the birds chirping, the humming of the cicadas in the trees, and airplanes rumbling through the skies.  He likes to pick up and feel the smooth edges of rocks and the funny feel of the grass in his hand as his picks it by handfuls before he throws it in the air to see how it falls. He chases after squirrels, birds and dogs. 

      A few days ago a bird was hopping along on the ground; he ran to catch the little bird and it began circling around the tree.  Bridger followed as quickly behind as he could.  I smiled as they circled seven or eight times before the bird hopped behind a bush, where Bridger quickly followed, crouching down, moving limbs, looking through the bush to find the bird. 

      To Bridger, the sidewalks, grass patches and trees surrounding our Dulles Greene apartments are full of wonder and excitement!

"This is the precious present, regardless of what yesterday was like, regardless of what tomorrow may bring.  When your inner eyes open, you can find immense beauty hidden within the inconsequential details of daily life.  When your inner ears are open, you can hear the subtle, lovely music of the universe everywhere you go.  When the heart of your heart opens, you can take deep pleasure in the company of the people around you--family, friends, acquaintances, or strangers--including those whose characters are less than perfect, just as your character is less than perfect.  When you are open to the beauty, mystery, and grandeur of ordinary existence, you "get it" that it always has been beautiful, mysterious, and grand and always will be."

-Timonthy Ray Miller