As much as I grumble about how much I drive on the highway with my job, I do cherish the experiences being out of the city gives me. From a distance I could see a huge bird dive down on a roadside carcass and then fly up to a tree as my car approached. The flash of the white tail startled me, waving hello to me and announcing itself. I had not expected to see an eagle at this time of year and certainly not so soon after the foursome that had greeted me this fall during a prayer walk. It was such an unspeakable joy.

I pulled over and parked as it landed on an evergreen tree and blended in with the background. I shuffled around in my camera bag, grabbing my camera, and attempted a few shots from inside the car. I got brave and stepped out of the car but did not get any clear shots as it flew to the other side of the highway. I hated disturbing it.

It perched across the roadway on top of this tall tree. I tried taking a few more photos but still not many turned out. I am still learning my way with the new camera and at dusk it is hard to figure out metering still. It does not really matter though. I am grateful for the joy given, the delight dwelling deep within.

Joy in this week of Advent is present. I am grateful for the eagle. I am grateful too for the tree which reminded me of the cross upon which the Joy of the angels hung, which started as that little babe that we await. Joy was born in a stable that starry night and hung on a cross that black afternoon. Joy did not die though. Joy is always resurrecting itself at the most unlikely moments. Joy unspeakable is yours this week. Pick it up.  Embrace it.  Wear it.  Share it. Thank it.

Peace,

Suzanne