Eagle Medicine

My husband and two children recently took our second day trip up to the Mississippi headwaters of Lake Itasca near Park Rapids, Minnesota. We decided to splurge and rent a pontoon for a few hours to explore the Lake even further this time. Previously we had only ventured out very near the shore on Kayaks. After driving the boat for just a few minutes we picked out a spot to drop anchor and swim and have a picnic lunch on what couldn't have possibly been a more gorgeous day.

Almost immediately after we dropped anchor my husband noticed a bald eagle above the tree line. We all saw it right away by where he was pointing. As soon as we noticed and said hello to this majestic creature--it flew closer until it was directly above us circling as if to say "I'm so glad you see me!"

I hadn't read the "Eagle" chapter in my Nature Medicine book for a while but I knew it well and smiled broadly upon being blessed by this glorious visitor. I am always amazed at how at different times, different things resonate or jump out that I didn't really feel before however so I always make a point to reference the book after an encounter and this time was no different. I was eager to read about Eagle medicine that night when we returned home and once again we were both strengthened and touched by its truth.

Immediately we recalled the mysterious and magical story of the dancing Eagle feather from our first trip to the Black Hills several years ago. This brilliant white feather was literally twirling just above our head in absolute mid air as we were entering a story book park of all places and it stopped us dead in our tracks! It was attached to nothing like an optical illusion the brain tries to comprehend. We looked at each other to be sure the other was seeing it and that we weren't imagining it. Reaching out to touch it we were certain it wouldn't actually be there. It was and it's now framed and in a special spot in our bedroom. Right beside the picture of the Bald Eagle that swooped down toward us on our Honeymoon. What a glorious way to begin a lifetime together! Indeed Eagle medicine has always been nearby. An Apache I corresponded with in a Spiritual forum online said this feather that danced before us in the hills of Black Elks homeland was a great honor of the Great Spirit given to us because we walk the true path. He also said the feather actually carries the strength of Spirit in it! This most recent sighting in what our children aptly named "Eagle Bay" on Lake Itasca reminded me of this at a time when we truly needed it most.

Mother Nature provides all the lessons we are seeking to learn and all the answers to our obstacles along the way. Of course we know now that just stepping outside for Her fresh air is enough to heal your energies. But also I'm hear to tell you as a Caucasian that is constantly seeking to know the culture and wisdom of the Native Americans, when you bring in the Animal kingdom and truly experience this that you have heard or read about you will feel so connected to Spirit that you will only seek to understand it and practice it further!

Here's the full excerpt on EAGLE from "Medicine Cards" St Martins Press- a book I highly recommend in the energies right now-- it's by Jamie Sams & David Carson www.medicinecards.com I know you will find it as moving as we do.

Eagle represents.... "Spirit"! Eagle medicine is the power of the Great Spirit- the connection to the Divine. It is the ability to live in the realm of spirit and yet remain connected and balanced within the realm of Earth. Eagle soars, and is quick to observe expansiveness within the overall pattern of life. From the heights of the clouds, Eagle is close to the heavens where Spirit dwells. The feathers of the Eagle are considered to be the most sacred of healing tools. They have been used for centuries by shamans to cleanse the auras of patients coming to them for healing. Within the belief systems of Native American tribes, Eagle represents a state of grace achieved through hard work, understanding, and a completion of the tests of initiation which result in the taking of one's personal power! It is only through the trial of experiencing the lows in life as well as the highs and through the trial of trusting one's connection to the Great Spirit that THE RIGHT to use the essence of Eagle medicine is earned.

Eagle reminds us to take heart and gather your courage, for the universe is presenting you with an opportunity to soar above the mundane levels of your life. The power of recognizing this opportunity may come in the form of a spiritual test. In being asttute, you may recognize the places within your soul, personality, emotions, or pysche that need bolstering or refinement. By looking at the overall tapestry, Eagle teaches you to broaden your sense of self beyond the horizon of what is presently visible. In learning to fiercely attack your personal fear of the unknown, the wings of your soul will be supported by the ever present breezes which are the breath of the Great Spirit!

Feed your body but more importantly feed your soul. Within the realm of Mother Earth and Father Sky, the dance that leads to flight involves conquering of fear and the willingness to join in the adventure that you are co creating with the Divine. You are being put on notice to reconnect with the element of air. Air is of the mental plane and in this instance it is of the higher mind. Wisdom comes in many strange and curious forms and is always related to the creative force of the Great Spirit.

If you have been walking in the shadows of former realities, Eagle brings illumination. Eagle teaches us to look higher and to touch Grandfather Sun with your heart, to love the shadow as well as the Light! See the beauty in both and you will take flight with Eagle. Eagle medicine is the gift we give ourselves to remind us of the freedom of the skies. Eagle askes you to give yourself permission to legalize freedom and to follow the joy your heart desires. (end of excerpt)

I encourage you to educate yourself on the wisdom of the Native Americans using this book or any other that resonates with you in these amazing times we live in! Once you begin to open up to this beauty all around you you will truly be amazed at how often the Animal Kingdom is able to comfort, teach and delight you!