"Herons"

This is going to be a large piece. I can’t remember the first time I saw a heron, but what I can say is that I’ve seen many, many over the course of the last years. This is because I have been out in nature, collecting artefacts of wildlife. It is quite the mystery: Why do I see herons so frequently? Is it attributable to my being out and about, or is there a deeper meaning here?

I like to think Herons are guardian-like. They are elegant - have so much poise - and they seem accustomed to humans like me. For some reason, they remind me of my father who has passed away some years ago. Much as a guardian watches over one, I’m keen on celebrating this aspect with regard to my father.

The grace with which I look back is a quality of integrity. Looking at my pictures evokes a sense of intimacy regarding nature, but also my wild sense of self. I’m so fond of my photographs because they embody something greater than me. Like my father, I grow older by the minute. This also involves wisdom.

Like any other animal, Herons are wise. But, I think, my knowledge of them outstrips most of my animal related understandings. I know a lot about squirrels and their ties to nature and seasons. Even beavers and skunks best me in terms of relating with me, i.e., when they see me and engage or not. However, Herons are gem-like in that they truly are magnificent.

Animals and beauty go hand-in-hand. But when you love a creature as cool as the Heron, it makes you wonder if it is the same kind of love as one may be fond of, say, squirrels. Ultimately, preference is key, with some having an inclination for others, and vice versa.

Sometimes, I wonder if human related values belong in the realm of fauna. Non-human animals are not people, but this does not stop us from making sense of creatures. When I say that my father is invoked in the Heron figure, I trust this connects with what I love: being passionate around animals. Still, I always make sure that I respectfully explore fauna.