The start of spring wasn’t exactly a flowering bloom of sunshine and warmth on Wednesday. Still, the serenity of many a riverfront scene in the Rumson-Fair Haven area will take the chill out of any day or bad vibe.

Reflection. With the end of the cold and all it kills comes rebirth — the hope of renewal. Another chance to chase the sun, feed on its warmth and light, thrive and blossom. A family of ducks down by the river made a message clear recently as they cozied together in peace and with grace in their habitat, conscious of and grateful for their place on the river.

Call it a family tradition of valuing place. The reflection of it all. The sun creates double vision — more to see and recall in the glassy water. More to remember about that importance of place and reflect on the image and its power.

Ducks are said to suffer with loneliness and isolation. They are also said to get along well with one another, usually not quibbling. They are also said to grieve like humans.

Looking at the reflections of these images is to see the simple value of place and a bird’s eye view of paradise in harmony down by the river.

Yes, everything has it’s time and purpose. Down by the river, the purpose is to remember that there is no grief when you know that home is always a slice of heaven. The heart knows and sees this bigger picture. It reflects it. Friends and family, the flock, is always welcomed home. Accepted. See?

— Elaine Van Develde

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