Rhythm of Place, Part 3

I arrived at San Damiano a few minutes before registration opened. I decided to take my first of many walks that I would take that week. They have a beautiful area set aside for the Stations of the Cross, and I decided to start there. Just as I was finishing that walk, a man approached me and said, "I am sorry to disturb you, but if you walk back down that path and then down the stairs, you can sit on the bench and take in a beautiful view of the Tri-Valley area." I thanked him for the reminder. I have seen that view before, but it was several years ago. Long enough that I had forgotten about it. I turned and began walking towards the stairs. However, when I got there, there were two people sitting on the bench, appearing to be engrossed in conversation.  Not wanting to disturb them and thinking I had plenty of time for valley viewing, I turned and went on to registration.   

However, every time I returned, there were always two people sitting on the bench quietly talking. On the last day, after I had put my luggage in the car, I thought that surely people would be distracted with their own leave takings so I could sit and ponder the view for a few minutes. I stepped on the path. Because of the large oak trees, the area was deep in shade. Yet, even in that dim morning light,  I caught a glimpse of some movement. I paused, and as my eyes adjusted to the light, I saw a small herd of deer sitting in front of me. The movement that I almost sensed more than saw turned out to be the twitching ears of a young male who was looking at me intently. His antlers were in the velvet stage of growth. What light there was outlined the tips of his ears. He was stunningly handsome. 

I bowed and smiled. I quietly told them I would not disturb them, and I turned towards my car and the journey home.

Deer are plentiful in the east bay. Yet, as common as they are, I feel I have been given a sighting of a rare creature. Because of the shade, I did not try to take a picture. I also did not want to fumble and cause a distraction. The image I am content to carry in my heart.  

I just read that velvet antler is considered medicinal, and that herds are raised for the purpose of harvesting the antlers. This discovery saddens me. Yet, I will continue to believe that one day humans will be able to walk peaceably with our fellow creatures. Then, and only then, will we find the healing we so anxiously seek. I think rather than call this area the Stations of the Cross, I will call it "Where the Deer Can Rest."  I think Jesus would appreciate the change of view.

image: Stations of the Cross, San Damiano, October 2022