In Quest of Coyotes

Legs fully extended, scraggly tail parallel to the earth, the lean body of a coyote races down the darkened street in front of me. His speed is both terrifying and inspiring, a figure of movement and grace. Intent on some unseen prey, he does not see me in the shadows of early morning. But I see him.
 
I have read that in Native American culture, the coyote is considered a “Trickster,” a symbol for humor. Perhaps that is why after months of spotting Javelinas, bobcats, quails, and roadrunners, I now see coyotes frequently zigzagging across my path. Perhaps they are a reminder humor plants the seeds for laughter and it is time to pay attention to . . . even seek . . . the comical side of life.