Four large spotted wood owls nest in a rain-tree along my running path. Two adults and two offspring. The adults sit patiently at dusk; resting and gathering the strength needed for the night’s hunt. The offspring jump and flit from branch to branch perhaps unconcerned or unaware of what is needed for the challenges ahead.

I’ve seen this behavior during the Paralympics where new young studs strut while veterans lie in wait for the precise moment when everything in one’s being is needed for the assault.

These days, I too find my discretionary energy channeled more judiciously.