Someone once asked our Director if she ever got used to having a tiger right outside her office. She replied yes, she did get used to it, but she still appreciates the fortunate opportunity she has to see and interact with these amazing creatures every day.
We all get used to the beauty around us, don’t we? I know I have to remind myself of the simple beauties I encounter every day. I was reminded of this very fact when I saw a photo that was submitted for our photo contest. The person submitted some great photos of our tigers, bears and wolves and other amazing animals at our zoo. But then there was this photo they had taken of a single bird sitting on top of one of our bird houses. I was in awe of the beauty that the photographer had captured in this picture. I see birds every day, yet I forget to really look at them and appreciate how beautiful they truly are. I guess it truly reminded me to slow down and enjoy the beauty that is all around me and take a moment to appreciate it.
I’m fortunate to have a relationship with our red kangaroos, Sydney and Bindi. They know me, come hopping towards me when they hear my voice and I feel in a “roo way” they love me. I continue to be in awe of the beauty and uniqueness of these sweet kangaroos and the amazing relationship I have with them. I hope I never forget that. I hope I never take for granted of that. I hope, like our Director, I will always appreciate the fortunate opportunity I have.
Some of us, like me, need to reminded, to slow down, soak in the beauty of what is around us and enjoy and appreciate even those small things in our lives every day – like those small creatures – like a single, beautiful bird.
