April is all about the critters. Yesterday was International Beaver Day ( I kid you not) and on Tuesday we actually saw a beaver and heard it at as well when it slapped its tail as we were paddling a quiet lake north of Kingston.
This also happens to be National Wildlife Week, which has been in existence since 1938. When we were paddling and while we spent a couple of glorious hours on an island we saw no other human beings but plenty of animals and birds. Along with the beaver there was an otter which we saw several times. There was a pair of merlins who voiced their displeasure at our presence. We could hear the loons of this lake, a first this year, and a pileated woodpecker pounding with mating vigour. As we drove to our destination we literally slowed for wild turkeys and then paused on the gravel road to listen to the din of Spring peepers and chorus frogs, On our paddle back to the landing it was warm enough that the water snakes were on patrol and the bugs were skittering on the surface. Wildlife Week? We were living it.
Wait, there's more! April is Earth Month, an extension of the annual recognition of Earth Day on April 22nd. Many congregations recognize Earth Sunday which this year is April 18th. While we will likely not be gathering for indoor and in-person worship, this could nudge us out the door to appreciate the diversity and beauty of Creation. Sure, we'll watch the online service, but as Earthlings we can all "take time to be holy" in the midst of the wonder of the season. April is such a hopeful month in these parts, so let's hope we can give thanks and praise every day.
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