In my last post I wrote about looking for symbols as a way of enhancing insight and intuition. I recently had an experience that shows just how to take this approach and utilize it in real life.
For the sake of planning (and to allow myself to sink into nature) I usually follow the same basic path on my morning walks. This morning was no different and I set out to take a walk I have taken many times before. Usually I listen to an inspirational message or music that keeps me grounded and connected to Spirit. However, today I just felt like walking in silence.
As I got to the top of the mountain I felt a strong urge to sit in the grass and pray. This was quite surprising to me since I'm allergic to grass (it make me itchy and blotchy) and I normally don't do any personal spiritual work in public. Yet the feeling was so irresistible! So sit I did and pray I did. I asked for guidance and help for a situation where I was feeling powerless and overwhelmed. I asked for signs that I am on the right track, and inspiration to take the path that would lead me in the way of my soul.
When I felt complete I continued on my way.
As I headed down the trail I heard a ruckus in the bushes next to me. Out swooped a huge hawk! It flew right in front of me then up onto a branch high in a tree. The hawk sat there watching as I walked by. Keeping my eye on the hawk I continued on my way, curious and incredulous that this bird came so close to me. I knew this hawk was meant to deliver a message to me. This was too rare of an occurrence to be chalked up to coincidence (which I don't believe in anyway). But what was the message?
Well, here is where the fun begins. I came home and began to research hawk symbolism from various traditions. What I found is that the hawk symbolizes visionary power, the messenger, and wisdom-in-action. With its keen eyesight the hawk reminds us to keep our eyes open and notice the details that we typically overlook. Researching even deeper the hawk can also be seen as symbolizing death.
With this in mind I began to consider my current challenges through the symbolism of the hawk. Was his message to stay true to my vision for myself and in that I will find my answers? Was his presence an actual sign that Spirit heard my plea, the Hawk acting as messenger for this? Am I a messenger for something? And where am I being short sighted, losing my ability to see the bigger picture or the details? And as a symbol of death, is is possible a part of my ego is dying to a more beautiful whole can emerge? These are just a few of the questions whose answers have given me clarity on how to proceed in these challenging times.
There are countless possibilities to explain Hawk's presence in my life. Experience has shown me that often messages come (to me) via animals and "strange" interactions with them. Yet if I wasn't paying attention or allowing myself solitude to consider their meaning these beautiful passages to my intuition would simply turn into a story to tell at parties. Coincidences at best.
As so it is with you. Your intuition speaks to you in many ways. Sometimes it is loud and obvious. Other times it can be more subtle yet insistent. Either way, all it takes is a willingness to notice, be playful, and in all aspects stay curious.
Enjoy!
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