We tend to think of nature as separate. We imagine spending time “out there” hiking in some remote wilderness, drinking from mountain streams and observing creatures that have never faced highway traffic. There, in a place far from our busy lives, we might find peace, tranquility and some kind of deep connection to what is real.

If. We. Just. Found. Time. To. Get. There.

The magnificent blues guitarist Robert Lockwood, Jr., performed regularly not far from my childhood home. But the divides of race and radio kept me from hearing him play until I was an adult. Even when I started spending my babysitting money on music I was limited to what was available in stores within walking distance.

The world is full of ordinary, wonderful people.

Ever since I learned about Randy Stang in Regina Brett’s Plain Dealer column (www.cleveland.com/brett/blog/index.ssf/2010/02/bay_village_mans_last_wor...) his example of casual grace has helped me see greatness in a new way. Those who bring out the best in themselves have a way of doing that.

“Not only is another world possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing.” Arundhati Roy

Okay, maybe not the world, but these guys are trying.