Thursday, March 31, 2011
The Toad
Monday morning dawned overcast with evidence of a light shower during the night. It remained overcast and I realized it was a perfect day to get out and do some weeding. As I pulled weeds, using a little clawed trowel, I raked back the dead leaves from around a daylily. Nestled down into the dirt next to the base of the lily I caught a glimpse of a beady eye! Upon closer inspection, I discovered a big brown spotted toad (perhaps a bewitched prince!). He was almost completely covered with dirt and leaves. I considered the possibility of kissing him, but already having a very suitable prince,and the idea of kissing him was quite unappealing, I gave that idea up. I carefully avoided him but continued cleaning weeds out. I wondered if the scratching of my trowel, and the tremors of the earth frightened him and was reminded of Peter Rabbit and Mr. McGregor. Alas! Peter was in much greater peril than my little prince-toad!

I adore discovering little creatures to whom I must appear to be great danger. Not that I enjoy frightening them. I just enjoy seeing them in their world, knowing their fear will fade away as I move on in my own world. Reminds me of an old saying, though I doubt I can quote it exactly. It goes something like "Most of the things we fear never happen." How often do we waste countless hours worrying over something that might never come true?