A Powerful Message from Afar
This fall, two snowy owls were spotted on Chicago’s lakefront. Hailing from the Arctic, thousands of miles away, the majestic pair captivated our embattled city. Though recognized as a vulnerable species, the owls’ ability to thrive in harsh conditions signifies resilience, endurance, and strength. That these mystical birds would land on our shores at this moment is a true gift and a message to take into 2026. illustration by Ellen Litwiller