Two Things Can Be True at Once

This view was not new to me. I’ve been in this park hundreds of times over the last few years.

It didn’t occur to me that it might be cold enough for ice. I’m not sure about anyone else, but cold just feels cold to me.

There was something oddly beautiful in the contrast: swans moving easily through the water in the background, while a seagull in the foreground attempted to strut confidently across the frozen surface. Its feet splayed without warning, progress interrupted by the ground refusing to behave as expected.

Whenever it lost its footing, the bird paused, looking around as if to check whether anyone had noticed, before trying again. I found myself rooting for it to reach firmer ground, even as I stood there, highly amused, watching far longer than I probably should have.

It reminded me that two things can be true at once. A situation can be grounding and perfectly pleasant, while also being uncomfortable and, frankly, worthy of a bit of a moan.

Still, it’s better to show up and try something than it is to do nothing at all.