Sitting on a bench in my favorite tiny woods, I heard the twigs crack in an uneven rhythm and expected to see a chipmunk hop and scurry past. Instead, I turned into a gaze of intention, steady and unwavering, which made me question my intentions. I was used to being the one who watches to determine when it might be safe to stay, or to go. I barely took a breath, moving with caution to snap a photo of her in the wild. I wondered if this would break her focus. But she was direct, she would not be moved. Not by fear or by doubt or by question. Not until she so desired. I admired such character and her willingness to sit with me in my own moment of doubt. I had questions for her then, but her eyes fluttered as if to say, This isn’t the time. It’s simple trust. Her expression relaxed, and so did I.
This is wonderful, Christi … and the doe is stunningly beautiful. What a magical moment.
Thank you, Beth! ???? I thought for sure when I pulled out my phone she’d scurry away. I’m glad she stayed as long as she did.
They are such amazing creatures. You captured her well, in words and picture.
I’ve been back to that park recently and was hoping to see her again. No luck, which makes this moment even more precious.
Christi – I loved your tiny essay and how you were able to pack an entire story of feelings and descriptions into a compact form. Hope you’ll share some more.
Thanks, Amanda. Tiny essays are my favorite thing to write these days ????