This morning was not beginning terrific.  The weather was wonderful, but my attitude was  cloudy.  When I pulled into the parking space at work, I saw a Red Tailed Hawk land on a tree.  I wondered - Why is he so low?  What does he see?  How close can I get before he flies?  

I started to walk across the grass toward the street.  I wasn't trying to hide, but I was walking slowly. The little birds were complaining and sending up their warnings.  He noticed me and turned his head so he could get a good look at me.  His profile gave me a good look at his beak and head feathers.  I stopped walking.  Only six feet separated us.  Neither of us were in any danger.  Even if he was unsure of my innocent motives,the hawk knew he was faster than I am.  I knew I was not on his prey list. So we looked at each other.

I marveled at the care of his  creation -- a powerful bird created to keep the environment clean. He was about 12 to 14 inches tall. He thins the over population of rodents and small birds.  The neighborhood birds were now in full protest.  I must have been holding my breath because I was aware of my slow sigh watching him on the branch.  

Then he had enough of me and my stares.  He swooped away flapping his wings to gain height so he could find a mouse or squirrel for mid morning snack. And I returned to everyday life.  My cross attitude had improved because I took those moments to let Awe of God's creation flow back into my life.