Further down the path I took, I came upon a pair of Mourning Doves. Surely this was a good omen if ever there was. They cooed not a sound nor flew off when I approached but sat watching me as I passed under their perch above. The Mourning Dove teaches me grace and its song inspires me. I thanked them for their presence and continued on through the park. Down the way from the doves perch, my path was crisscrossed by a wayfaring dragonfly. It flew up and down, backwards and still on the air. It came to tell me that life was meant to be explored and we are supposed to forge our own way. I thanked it for its wisdom and it soon was on its way. It was around this point that I was startled by a small sleeping dragon. Now, I'm not very conversant in dragon lore but I know one when I see one. Anyone who thinks dragons are extinct or just beasts of imagination obviously never encountered one. There's no telling how long this one has been around, probably hundreds of years. It's size was small, probably near 15 feet from head to tail and its body was camouflaged to look like a pile of pine needles. This is one of the many unique traits of dragons that they can match their bodies to their surroundings and thus hide in plain sight. Dragon teaches me, even in slumber, that one does not have to be seen to gain others respect. Respect comes from one's bearing, spirit, and presence as much as whatever accomplishments one has made. I silently and carefully acknowledged the dragon and moved on. Now I'd like to be able to say I next came upon a murder of crows just because I love that phrase but in fact it was a flock of blackbirds making quite a ruckus. Blackbirds are another one to bring good omens to those aware enough to see it. They told me I was moving into deeper levels of spirit and what was once mysterious would become known. Sounds like a bad fortune teller, I know. But it makes sense to me because of the path I am on and I am not so foolish as to ignore the prophecies of blackbirds. It wasn't until the end of my hike that I met a most auspicious creature. Under a large shade tree, amongst a gathering of white ducks and mallards, was a lone peacock. It's not often one comes across such a magnificent being as this out in a park. The peacock stood very still as if in pose and then would continue to fluff its plumage or take the gentlest of steps and pluck seeds from the grass. Occasionally, it would raise up its neck and look around the area like a grand monarch looking over his land. I sat in awe and honor of Peacock for a long while. Someone else, not too far away, played a relaxing tune on a guitar. I felt as though I was being allowed to sit with Peacock and its court. It taught me humility in the presence of Nature and a universal oneness with all sentient beings. I felt completely at peace and wanted to stay all day. However, I was soon visited by Red Ant(s) and had to bid my farewell. The way I experienced my walk in the park is also the way I strive to experience my walk in life. I seek to learn from all who have something to teach and share my spirit with all.