S'no School Today

No class in session here, these benches have several inches of snow topping them. I have seen these benches filled with students listening eagerly as the resident naturalist teaches them to listen for the sounds of nature. Songbirds, squirrels, and buzzing insects, even the rustling of leaves, are all quiet today. All except...

In the distance, I can hear the creaks and moans of a young tree as it strains to hold up a fallen comrade.

I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. 'Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death.

Thomas Paine