Contact us at: whispernthunder1@gmail.comSituational Awareness
~ Orannhawk
When I was a child, my earliest lessons revolved
around nature. There was no guidebook, no
lesson plans, just moments of observation,
realization, and clarity. The subtle changes of
the air, the smells, and the reactions of the
animals were all that were needed. I studied
tracks, noticed when snails inched higher on
a wall, watched the movement of spiders, and how the leaves on the trees held themselves. The songs of the crows and hawks singing to me, the subtle swiftness of wildlife, the curiosity of the four-legged, and the interactions between nature and humanity were and still are a vital part of my life.
Each year as I grew taller, I learned new ways to see and experience the world. My understanding of the world as a child shifted, and my lessons expanded. Looking back, I learned more from my Papaw and my Dad than anyone else in my family. Some lessons were subtle and for a while, the significance was not as clear as it is now. One such lesson was to pay attention to how people walked. It was infrequent at times,
just a statement from one of them to watch and make notes, either mental or written.
I was puzzled at first, especially when my Dad suggested choosing a person and watching their movements in a daily situation. He was careful to point out that I was not to stalk anyone, only pay attention. The results were surprising. I knew there was more to this lesson, however it was obvious that they wanted me to discover it on my own. The second part of this exercise included my own steps.
The more I paid attention, the more I understood. It is not just the speed that one walks, but the nuances of the steps. I identified steps of others with my own steps. When we are in a hurry, we walk faster; yet if one is paying attention, it becomes clear if the steps are rapid, based on fear and survival, or excitement and purpose.
Steps that are made in panic increase adrenalin, and our stride changes, and any predator, human or animal, recognizes the pattern. Even today I watch how others walk, and I pay attention to my own steps. In their own way, both Papaw and my dad were teaching me about situational awareness.
In today's climate, using situational awareness is critical. I have taken part in multiple rallies and events for over twenty years, and I support additional efforts against Data Centers and No Wall. My participation in rallies and events occurred in multiple states, but those were at a time when the climate was not icy.
There are times when I wonder if I am overly cautious, but my mind always goes back to how I was taught. I watch the steps of those who walk in predators' shoes, and I know their steps are not gentle on this Earth. I hear their voices on the news, on social media, and I hear deception, and pretense. I hear the crow’s alerts.
I think about how I was raised, how I was taught, and I know my steps are gentle, and my words do not frighten the birds that follow me on my daily walks. May we all maintain situational awareness. Be kind. Be aware. Be safe.