A Calm, Still Lake

“Make your heart like a lake
with a calm, still surface
and great depths of kindness."
- Lao Tzu

Maiden and Flying Crane - Hsu Roh Ling
silk brocade mat

I may be imagining it, but I think I was the recipient of some interesting omens yesterday. Of course, now I must enlist your help to understand them.  Here's what happened.

I went out to the park at Weldon Spring City Hall with the intention of meditating before my walk, and as I approached, I saw someone I hadn't seen since last fall, Brother Heron--or is it Sister Crane? Can you see her there by the water's edge?

As I walked around the pond to my usual bench, we simply looked at each other, engrossed.

I took a seat and continued to watch. She got bored and turned away.

Just a moment after I snapped this shot, the bird rose gently up into the air. She leisurely unfolded her wings and flew across the pond, right over my head. I felt the whoosh of them as they beat just a few feet above me. You can't really tell by the pictures, but her wingspan was impressive, at least six feet wide. I was startled, but remained calm.

Chinese tradition holds cranes and herons in high esteem. According to my search, I found that they are regarded to be a symbol of longevity, and represent other auspicious traits, like health and happiness.

I looked to my right, and this lovely couple appeared.

These two ducks ignored my stare and walked right past me, down the hill...

and into the water. They were just ducky.

I learned that ducks are a Celtic symbol of honesty, simplicity, and resourcefulness, and represent sensitivity to nature and one's surroundings.

Just then, another couple arrived at the pond.

Two Canada Geese glided soundlessly into the pond directly in front of me. They seemed to want to meet up with the duck couple...

And they did.

According to Native American folklore, those who are kind, loyal, and brave attract geese as their totem. They also known to be true-blue defenders, and will never leave one of their own alone if sick or injured.


I can't ever recall seeing ducks, geese, and cranes/herons at the same time at the same water's edge. Have you?

Maybe these visits from my avian friends were a sign of fortune and good luck. Maybe they were a portent of things to come. Maybe it's simply the fact that I was so happy to be outside yesterday afternoon that I wanted it to be more significant than it was.

What do you think?

I hope you have a day full of good omens, and all of them come to pass.

Here's something new for you. I had the most wonderful time searching for the right music for this post. I wanted the zen flute, but happened across the Chinese bamboo flute, instead, and fell in love with this young lady's talent. Characteristic of the Chinese mindset, I suppose, this artist's name is not listed, though dozens of pieces by her have been posted. She is listed in a few of the videos only as "a skillful girl."

The name of this song is "Ten Thousand Year Happiness" and that is exactly what I'm hoping the visit by the crane might mean. Enjoy!