This is the way it works…

Earlier in the week the temperature reached seventy degrees. Cycling along the C&O Canal, the shadows of trees and saplings fell east across the tow-path. My tires bumped over a camouflaged black snake lying parallel to the shadows. Adrenaline pumping as my bike halted and prayers began for the wellbeing of the snake. It’s head held up, dusty tire marks left midway through its four-foot length. Toward the head, graceful curves of its body remained, while the length of the tail expressed shock. Prayers continued for the well-being of the snake.

Since it was a weekday, there weren’t many folks on the trail. Still, my intention was to protect it from any other mishap, not knowing if it could move itself to safety. Gathering fallen branches and praying, barriers were built parallel to the snake on either side. It’s head raised and aware of my movements the entire time. Just as awareness came to me that there was nothing more to do, the snake slithered off down the bank toward the river, with all parts moving smoothly, though probably sorely, to safely. Overjoyed, my prayers stayed with this symbol of transformation for much of the ride.

Praying for the snake, was praying for myself. The moment the incident happened, awareness that my action had perhaps adversely affected a manifest symbol of transformation put directly in my path. It came to awareness that my actions were adversely affecting my transformation: so prayers for the snake were prayers for me.

On Friday morning, a business coach emailed a consulting offer that was appealing. As the day went on my resolve to take her up on the offer wavered: the cost. Before bed that night my experience with the snake on the canal flashed into my mind. Certainty that taking her up on her offer would be of benefit became clear. Still; finances had me frozen. Checking the mailbox the following day, there appeared an envelope from Toyota. A class action law suit had been settled. Attached was a check that would cover the amount for the business consulting fee. Pay attention.