Cornershot

On a recent spring morning all seemed right with the world.

I had attended Mass, where we had sung “Canticle of the Sun,” a hymn that reflects St. Francis’ love for all of God’s creation. One verse praises the bountiful Earth and its creatures as expressions of God’s glory.

As I approached an intersection on Colonial Avenue, two such creatures stepped out on faith to cross the road. Duck faith.

Each duck was beautifully colored, iridescent green feathers fore and brown feathers aft. Their legs and feet flashed brilliant carrot orange.

Looking neither left nor right, the ducks walked in single file at a measured, dignified pace, the follower duck perhaps trusting to the front duck’s leadership: If he thinks it is safe to cross, it must be safe to cross.

But no. Calamity loomed, threatening to destroy the ducks’ happiness and mine.

As they reached the center of the lane a car was headed straight for them, but it stopped without even a screech of tires and let them pass. As they entered the other lane, the signal light changed, and now the ducks were imperiled by a car beginning a left turn. That car also made a smooth stop, allowing the ducks to make it safely across and up the bank.

Thanks to two compassionate and attentive drivers, the ducks were spared. Bless those drivers and all like them. St. Francis would be pleased.

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