Recently I said a prayer as I was starting my least favorite chore – mowing the lawn.

I had always mowed in anger.

I asked for the ability to do the job without anger and to let the self-propelled mower do the work (I find myself pushing when there’s no need).

My work went smoothly and I was able to use less of my energy for the job. I took several breaks and felt calm (it was humid and HOT – in the 90s). I finished the back yard and started on the front after a break to cool down and hydrate.

As I was taking my first full lap around the front yard, I encountered a red tailed hawk. The encounter was brief but it lives in me. Seeing this felt very affirming.

It was a manifestation of God’s presence in that moment.

Hawk Native American symbolism

Hawks are gatekeepers of the East and they represent honesty and clear vision. Hawks are reliable warriors of truth. … As per Native American shamans, the red tailed hawk symbol with its sharp, eagle-like whistle indicates ‘that you should clear your mind.

My prayer was surrendering to the moment. When I surrender to the present moment completely I become aware of the presence of God.

God is here, now.