Muntjac Musings

Yesterday was a busy day. It started early. My diary stated clearly what ought to have happened – things to do, people to see. I like it when things go to plan – life’s straightforward. The course my day took was entirely different…

…Cheerful people celebrated successes, sick people needed support. Phone calls were made, problems overcome. There were issues with online banking, internet providers, social services, microwaves, family stuff… friends with alcohol dependency, new homes being sorted out, a dad with dementia…  

I was cycling to our church community café. My mind was full of stuff. I crossed Tom Crisp Way – the busy A12 running through Lowestoft. There, 10 metres ahead of me, on a footbridge crossing a stream, was a small muntjac deer. I cycled towards him.

‘Hello Muntjac,’ I said. He looked at me, walked away from me, and when he thought I was getting too close he skipped off into a nearby wood. I stopped and looked – but he’d gone…

Musing…

Encounter the Muntjac: Yesterday was full of the unexpected… making unexpected phone calls, meeting unexpected people… being asked to do things that weren’t part of my plans…

I met my unexpected muntjac friend… and encountered other metaphorical unexpected muntjacs. I should know by now. Life doesn’t always go according to plan.

Engage with the Moment: In the grand story of yesterday my muntjac moment was small. I could have missed it. Other activities and conversations took much longer, involving significant events, important decisions, ongoing difficulties…

I can underestimate the importance or significance of the momentary encounter, the sincere smile, the grateful acknowledgement, the brief conversation.

Enjoy the Memory: In the evening I recounted my day to Rachel… I reflected on my day with my heavenly Father. There was much to remember and be grateful for.

I’m delighted with friends who have… completed college essays… successfully moved to a new flat… made the first steps to conquer their addictions… And I’m still smiling at my brief muntjac encounter.