On a recent Autumn sunset at Black Bayou, this lone egret was keeping an eye on me, but never did fly away. I expect to see the colors of Fall even here in Louisina, but I’m not sure if these pine trees are suffering from drought or are turning color. It is my general understanding that they are usually green throughout the seasons. I can continue to observe that the water level continues to sink and I’m uncertain that there was anything for this egret to find to eat, though it was making the effort.
The photos below are from the tributary that leads to the boat dock. I do not think it is high enough for boat traffic at this point.
But back to the egret at sunset. I’m not an early bird, so my chances of photographing an egret at sunrise are slim. But the sunset on the Bayou is phenomenal. The tint of the sunlight at this time of year casts beautiful shadows and colors that seem to me to be distinct to the Fall.
The nearer it grew to sunset, the more golden the light became. Sometimes when we get too involved in the day-to-day duties and struggles, we forget that we are part of a planetary system that consistently delivers blessings we overlook. Sunset seems like a special time. I was wondering about a particular day at Sunset when the Savior reached out to the hurting and helpless.
At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. - Luke 4:40
Was there a golden glow shining down approval on this scene of healing and joy? I imagine so, as I picture it in my mind.
This egret seems unaware of the tinted sunset rays as it preens and cares for itself. If you look closely on the side views, some feathers have remained on the end of its beak! (If you click on each picture you can see a larger image.) It was definitely keeping an eye on me! But soon enough hunger took precedence over cleanliness and to the water, in search of sustenance before darkness arrives.
The water lilies are decaying and there is surely some insect life as they decompose. In the shallow remaining water perhaps a tadpole or very small minow.
“Every sunset brings the promise of a new dawn.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Inevitably, the sun sinks. The temperature drops. Visibility becomes limited. I make my way to my car, still grateful for the encounter at sunset with a beautiful egret. I was reminded of a hymn from my childhood, Virgil Brock’s Beyond The Sunset. A few lines of that lyric remind us of our hope.
Beyond the sunset, O glad reunion With our dear loved ones who've gone before;
In that fair homeland we'll know no parting -Beyond the sunset forevermore!
Virgil is buried beside his first wife, Blanche. Their headstone has the lyrics to their best-known song. Perhaps beyond the sunset they are still singing their song.
I always look forward to my next visit to Black Bayou. I never know where my mind will wander as I take in the beauty and peace of this place. But I am always thankful you are reading along. Work hard, rest well, and stay connected. The world needs you.
Thank you, God for blessing us with the beauties of your creations!
This is beautiful!