My brief sunrise wander this morning was such a gift. I almost didn’t venture out as it is quite overcast, heavy clouds on the horizon and chilly, no, it is cold. My phone is showing me “36F, feels like 28” with a big orange bar stating “Freeze Warning!” We have certainly hit the time of year to wear the winter coat on these early mornings.
The pull got me, so I pulled on my long sweater, wrapped my prayer shawl scarf around me and off I went towards the horizon where there was a sliver of light and color forming. Traffic is busier this time of morning during the week, which is another reason I tend to stay in and save these wanders for the weekend. We live near large high school and middle school campuses, where the track I often visit on Sunday mornings is located. I made it to the street corner but felt the need to just stay put on this side of the road. As I walked down to the north and found a better view. The one from which this photo was taken. After which I had decided I didn’t dress warm enough and ventured back towards home. However, I noticed that traffic had paused. There was no car in sight from either direction and the color was begging me to get a better view, what was hiding on the other side of the school out of sight from me? So leaning into the pull I dashed off across the street, down the hill and headed towards the track and paths along the back side of the middle school. As I did I was aware that getting back across the road I’d likely not be so lucky coming home.
As I climbed the hill and came more into view I felt like I was chasing the color from the sky. The pinks had faded up into and behind the clouds above. Yet I felt the need to be in this space where I now was. Why? What was I noticing? A small gathering of birds, I am assuming magpies gathered in the top of a tree ahead, caught my eye as the tree had dropped its leaves already and they were clearly in view. Then overhead flew a flock of another bird, seemed larger than swallows yet flowed along much like they do. In fact, they soared overhead then seemed to dance a loop in the air as they headed off just to say “bye, thanks for noticing us.” Taking in the connection and breathing in the chill I continued to be present but started to turn back towards home. As I did a hawk swooped across my path close enough to see clearly his markings and majesty and then down beyond past the track. It took my breath away and I was reminded of a song I held so closely this summer. I began to sing it and the words came back. I felt a nudge of encouragement to get back on track with my mission. A clarity of purpose and reminder that I am not alone. The song is The Eagle and The Hawk by John Denver. The lyrics are:
I am the eagle, I live in high country
In rocky cathedrals that reach to the sky
I am the hawk and there’s blood on my feathers
But time is still turning, they soon will be dry
And all of those who see me, all who believe in me
Share in the freedom I feel when I fly
Come dance with the west wind and touch on the mountain tops
Sail over the canyons and up to the stars
And reach for the heavens and hope for the future
And all that we can be and not what we are
With gratitude for these precious moments of connection I began my journey home. Reciting the song in my head, with a bit of dance in my step and warmth of joy in my heart. I arrived at the crosswalk and it came to my awareness that again the traffic had paused, feeling like it was parting for my crossing. Another nudge, sense of being guided, cared for and not alone. Never alone.
I would be honored to help you find your connection. Please reach out if I can be of assistance or walk with you on your path to harmony.
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