a pacifier hanging from a narrow twig,

Continue finding peace and tranquility in nature.

a traffic cone lodged in the crook of a tree,

Don't interpret the need to make a choice as an obstacle in itself.

and a squirrel huddled motionless on a branch.

Be active, but always preserve some of your energies for contemplation.

Later, I followed the scatter of two decks of playing cards in the snow for about a mile.

No matter how carefully you lead your life, your future will always depend somewhat on benevolent fortune.