NATURE WALK

Frozen Directions

A flock of turkeys crosses here every morning. Sometimes a deer leaps from the brush. All is frozen and hushed. I pause. I'm on my way somewhere; between here and there, between last year and last night. I was on my way to help, but stopped. I've tried not to notice my halt. Usually, I'm anywhere but here. I hurry to where I'm buried in paperwork; oblivious to cold.

One turkey tippy-toes across the frozen ruts, and then another. I laugh as they race — each, alone — afraid to be without the others. Laughter reminds me: I used to fly.

— PAM HOFER