Encounters

Highway 101 runs along the west coast and it’s known for sharp curves, stunning views of the ocean and falling rocks from steep, shear cliffs. Recently, my wife and I drove to Astoria to do some shopping and some exploring. As we worked our way through a series of switch-back curves, we met a new friend. He had already stopped traffic coming the other way. Now, as he casually walked across the busy highway, quite unconcerned about cars flashing headlights and honking horns, I stood on the brakes and pulled to the shoulder of the roadway. The next thing we knew, he was strolling up behind our car, then walking slowly beside us on the passenger side. Thus, the picture above. What a magnificent creature. I think Sue could have reached out an touched him he was so close, but she had second thoughts. Smart woman.

This has been a remarkable week because of sightings and encounters with wonderful examples of beauty in God’s good creation. Two days ago it was the brilliant rainbow in our neighborhood, then yesterday the Elk walking beside the car, and today my unplanned visit with two deer eating grass along a roadway in our State Park. The pair looked up, gave me a wink, and kept right on eating. Since there were no other cars on this backroad, I stopped, rolled down the window, said hello and asked them to pose for a few photographs. Apparently the sweet grass was more interesting than my invitation, but I got a few pictures anyway. Wonderful memories were made this week. Wonderful blessings came our way. In all three episodes, I turned a corner and ran right into examples of the artistry and gifts of The Presence. I can’t wait to get in the car tomorrow!