It was early on a Saturday morning. I awoke to a peaceful day; sunny, cool, quiet. I sat at my computer to catch up on my work and clear it away because today was an exciting day for me. This was the day I would address the last edits for my book. Today it would be finished!

Something caught my eye from the window behind my computer screen. It was a huge bird landing in the back yard! It had a wingspan of at least five feet, long legs, a long body and a long neck. It was a Great Blue Heron!

It stood still on the grass carefully considering its surroundings and then walked ever-so-slowly towards the pond. I caught my breath, afraid she would spook and fly away.

I moved slowly to the window, mesmerized by the look of her – so tall, so majestic, so beautiful. As I watched she stepped into the pond and walked along its shallow bottom. I ran from window to window seeking a better vantage point until she disappeared around the bend and up the brook. After a while, she came back down the brook to the pond. She emerged at the other side and stepped up onto the grass, walked a few steps, then she flew away.

Do you ever analyze your nighttime dreams? I think it is fun to analyze my waking hours too.  Why did a Great Blue Heron appear on such a significant day? What was her message?

Some say the Great Blue Heron is a symbol of one’s ability to stand alone, representing uniqueness, balance, self-esteem, dignity, exploration, fluidity and peace. What a powerful message on a day when I would decide whether or not my manuscript was ready to release, to take that final nervous step.

I sat in the wake of her visit moved by what had happened. She affected me long after she flew away, her message beating in my heart: courage.

Do you recognize the magic in your life? Do you ever analyze your waking hours?

photo credit: Don DeBold

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