Travels Around North America

Yesterday morning we were camped outside of Clinton, NJ. The park was a cacophony of birds' songs, and I took my binoculars out after daybreak to see what I could see. Everywhere we go, I discover birds I've never seen before and appreciate the richness they bring to my life. That morning, I'd read a thread a woman wrote about what to do with a bird that had been keeping her up all night with its singing. Her respondents all seemed to think the best thing was for her to scare it off, or kill it. So sad.

Right now, we're in Jersey City. Yesterday afternoon, we saw Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Before going, I'd been reading some of the posts from people about immigrants, aliens, and punishments. Looking at the educational displays at Ellis Island, I realized that the "huddled masses" have been coming across our borders and met with hostility. Still, for all that, we've managed to become the only country in the world with the degree of diversity we have. I think that's something to be proud of, and embrace the things that make us different, in addition to our similarities. Every unique individual in our social network ADDs to our strength and viability. I wish we could just learn to get along. (Me and Rodney King.)

Today is NYC. I'm guessing that will bring a bunch of changes. Thank God.

When faced with something you don't like, sit with it for an hour and think about what it's bringing you that you are uncomfortable with. It just may be a signpost to a better life.