I met this owl in my hotel in Thailand.

It was free to fly, but it chose to stay.

We sat together watching the sun rise over the river.

It taught me to sit on the threshold.

Not to fight invisible foe.

And to trust my wings when it is time to fly.

I met this cedar tree in the forest of Washington state.

I gently inquired if it would be my ally.

In response it gave me a hug and gently stroked my cheek.

It taught me to honor all life.

It taught me to find my best friends with a gentle touch and an open mind.