52 Weeks #20

Well, week no. 20 of the 52 WEEKS PROJECT was a bit of a challenge for me...loved the subject matter but wasn't sure how to go about it.  While I worked I kept remembering my childhood up north (which often seems to be the case). 

My best friend's brother had come upon a fox with his leg caught in a trap which he saved though not without difficulty as the fox snapped and snarled.  When he got it home, he created a cage to keep it safe until Forestry & Wildlife Services could arrive to nurse it back to health to re-release into the bush.

While we awaited the gentleman from Forestry, my friend and I sat, not too close as to frighten him but near enough to feel like we might be of comfort the fox.  At one point I stared into his eyes and felt a real kinship to him...so connected to something which had seemed so far removed from me. 

I still try to keep that connection to other living beings in mind whenever I make decisions as to how I choose to live my life.  Making a point of walking or riding my bike instead of driving, only owning one vehicle, living in a community where that is possible, recycling as much as possible, and not making purchases in the first place when I don't really need to.  It was a good memory.

Although often considered sly, fox is also quick-witted and courageous.  He observes his environment in silence, teaching us to remain calm, cool and collected, reminding us not to jump to conclusions.