Well, my son spotted the bird. We were walking along the beach path on our way home. The owl was perched on the railings along the bridge ; just sitting staring steadily ahead. It didn’t move a feather as we approached. Maybe turned its head a little towards us, eyes unblinking.

Huge eyes in a face etched with white and black markings . Small body and rounded larger head. Smooth feathers.

But the image of that owl is with me this morning as I walk along the river in North Fremantle. The water sparkles, the sky is clear and the sun shines on a frosty morning.

It’s another magic day and the owl just reminded me that days are precious, that life is good. Despite the violence and destruction that seems to surround us, despite the unexpected often difficult problems that just pop up in our lives.

That owl was unphased. Just kept staring unblinkingly ahead, while taking quick glances beneath the bridge. I guess watching out for his meal.