Looking Closely

I appreciate a planned outing. I am prepared for what I might see and anticipate the effect it may have on me. But, it’s the unexpected moments that I appreciate even more. It’s the multi-colored tulips that remain closed to the early morning chill that stop me in my tracks.

The flowering dogwood causes me to pause as its branches reach across the sidewalk; it dares me to walk past without stopping to see the blossoms of four petals spread like a cross.

Forced to the other side of the road to avoid those working on a neighbor’s roof, I ask Franklin to stop so I may observe the new growth on the pine tree, the lime green tips so young and bright.

And, while I look for those unexpected moments of hope, Ivy leads me directly to the house of someone who appreciates our passing by. We are invited to stop—Ivy for a treat, and me, for a place where I feel welcome.

There is something for everyone, if we take the time to look closely.