| Hooded Mergansers and Other Thoughts [message #10659] |
Sat, 20 December 1997 00:00 |
davidf
Messages: 2866
Registered: September 1996
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Senior Member |
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Hi Folks,
I haven't been feeling particularly thoughtful or festive
this holiday season. But this morning I got up early for
the annual Christmas Bird Count. It was one of those crisp,
quiet, start-of-winter mornings that always reminds me why
I live in Colorado.
It was a quiet bird day. The usual well-tailored, but
otherwise boring Magpies. So many Starlings that I am
convinced they are conspiring to take over the Earth.
The day was saved by a quiet walk along the creek and a
brace of Hooded Mergansers, a rare bird in these parts,
diving in a small pond. As I watched them, I could feel
myself quiet and look inward. The rest of the day has
felt different to me. Transformed, if you like, by
unexpected birds.
And I got to thinking, as I came home and read my e-mail,
how much I appreciate the people on this newsgroup. I
subscribe to several newsgroups, but none is as important
to me as this one. None is filled with so many people
willing to be civil and helpful to one another. For
someone like me, who spends many hours working alone, it
feels like a community of friends.
So I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate it and
how much I learn from all of you. (And sometimes not just
about IDL.) I appreciate your courage to hit that SEND
button and make a commitment. I appreciate your willingness
to share your knowledge and expertise. I appreciate your
sensitivity in answering questions. I especially appreciate
those of you who are willing to make yourself vulnerable
and *ask* the questions. Thanks for participating and for
being the kind of community you are.
May this Holiday Season be quiet and peaceful to all of
you. May you find the time to walk along a creek and
discover a pair of unexpected birds. :-)
Best Regards,
David
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David Fanning, Ph.D.
Fanning Software Consulting
E-Mail: davidf@dfanning.com
Phone: 970-221-0438
Coyote's Guide to IDL Programming: http://www.dfanning.com/
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