to detect with the eyes
to detect with senses other than vision
to come to know or recognize mentally
to recognize or identify as separate and distinct
to see or understand the difference
I drove to school this morning thinking about how to be in this day with a friend who would be returning after the death of a close relative.
As I turned the first corner, three deer stepped lightly into the road and paused to look at me. A woman told me once that sighting a deer is a sign to pay attention to friendship. Waiting for the deer to make their way I realized that I can’t really plan how to be with my friend, I just need to wait and see what is needed of me.
Farther on an eagle swooped down in front of my car startling me with his boldness, sharpening my senses. I barely slowed before his wings lifted him powerfully into the air again and he soared ahead of me for awhile.
I wonder what the sighting of an eagle means?
One Sunflower 
This really speaks to me today. I too am seeking discernment.
What a way to begin the day…the eagle and the deer will longer long in your thoughts, no doubt, and inspire discernement all their own.
I love the opening lines…and the closing question. Too often it seems that we try to “plan” things too a fault.
Good word for the experience! I love how you put “I didn’t know how to be in this day.” The simplicity of the explanation made me identify with the feeling. Your friend is lucky to have you–especially today.
I like the way you connected the patience you had for the deer with the patence you planned on showing your friend.
“I just need to wait and see what was needed of me.” This is the best friend–no hoopla.