I continue to be fascinated by birds and the synchronicity I experience with them. They are the soundtrack of my spiritual existence. Messengers who seem to bathe in the light of the spirit realm bring me so much richness and wisdom. I know that I am here to notice, to pay attention, and to point out what I notice to others.
Click here to read Bird Meanings and Messages Part 1
I wonder if it is the same for you? Do you feel lifted by their songs or still when a beautiful creature drops into your path? Do you feel the presence of a loved one in spirit is tied to specific birds or have meanings assigned to the creatures that show up in perfect timing to urge you forward?
Sometimes, it is so straightforward for me. I was walking with Rachel this morning and talking about my Grandmother and how much I miss her; even after all these years, I could use her advice. I told Rachel how much I appreciate that she opens the windows in our townhouse each morning. Somehow, even though we are over 15 miles from the ocean, I can smell salt in the air this time of year, and smelling the roses growing outside brings me back to my grandmother's garden. I will be washing a dish or making my tea, and I am transported, sometimes consumed with longing and other times comforted. I am here, and she is on the other side of this electric curtain, lighting me up. As I said this, we saw a goldfinch skip across a lawn and into a rose bush, reminding me of my grandmother’s blonde hair, her sing-song voice, and the roses I had just spoken of. The simple fact that I am being witnessed by the universe is enough to inspire me when I am low.
I also love looking into the deeper meanings and qualities each bird possesses. Spending time in nature and getting to know their personalities has brought a higher meaning to the messages they bring.
Hummingbird
These tiny, ethereal creatures personify the feeling of mediumship coursing through my body. Their fast-beating wings, like little hearts racing as they flit from one brilliantly colored flower to the next. They are subtle—blink, and you’ll miss them. These gem-colored birds seem to be favorites of spiritual souls. They also inspire hope and otherworldly qualities to rise to the surface. I have only seen one up close in my life. I had a client not long ago whose dad was in spirit, and he shared that he had been sending her hummingbirds. I was stunned when she shared that she encountered three in one day.
Vulture
Vultures are misunderstood and underappreciated. When we call someone a vulture, we are saying that they are eager to take advantage of other people's difficulties. If you see these creatures nearby, it’s a sign that something is dead, and they have likely been drawn by the scent of rot. I’d like to offer an appreciative viewpoint—these essential and strong creatures keep our earth clean. They take away and reuse what no one else wants. They do what needs to be done. Perhaps seeing them as a sign could inspire a feeling of appreciation and gratitude for something you have been undervaluing.
Crow
Long thought to be messengers between two worlds, crows have been called omens of change. Noticing them regularly is a sign you’re attuned to your environment. When an animal appears to you as a sign from spirit, it will keep appearing until you get the message. Crows can be a sign of a loved one in spirit and are favored by those who love the occult and welcome deeper meanings. Crows are hearty, intelligent, and persistent creatures.
Turkey
We used to have turkeys living in the tree above our house. They would hop down from the trees they slept in and circle up in our yard in the morning. They always look like they are having an important meeting. A group of turkeys is called a raft—from their history of roosting in the rafters of unfinished barns to protect them from the elements. They have also been called dole,” a “run,” a “school,” a “raffle,” or a “posse.” A turkey sighting can symbolize abundance as they are associated with harvest season. They are also most notably communal. If you google “turkeys mourning” or “turkey death dance” you will see videos of turkeys circling something dead and seeming to be highly coordinated. This is one of their natural defense mechanisms; when they feel threatened, they stick together—a reminder that there is strength in numbers and power in community care.
Eagle
Eagles are favorites of those who watch over us from spirit with a protective or majestic air. They also symbolize patriotism or military service in the US. I’ve had U.S. Marines in spirit identify themselves through the eagle, globe, and anchor symbol. They nest in the lake near my parent's home, and I’ve spent hours trying to catch a glimpse of them through binoculars—knowing they can easily spot me from wherever they perch. A synchronistic encounter with an eagle can be rare, precious, and powerful. We saw one land on the side of the road in Iowa last year and pulled over to get a better look. I had the feeling of being in the presence of something wise and all-knowing.
Swallow
The summer months where I live can be marked by the return of migrating swallows. These birds are extremely agile flyers and look like little pilots swooping and diving over the river. Because they mate for life and return to the same nest each year, they can symbolize love and devotion. I also associate them with the seasons' energy of warmth, action, passion, growth, and blooming.
Woodpecker
Whenever I see a woodpecker, they look like they are working through their lunch hour. They snake around trees and hammer into the bark with fervor. The noise can also call your attention. I have the urge to tell them to rest and give it a break or sleep on it. If you are in a season of noticing woodpeckers and feel a spiritual significance, consider how you might invite yourself to slow down and embrace rest.
Robin
These guys are really common in North America. You can expect to see them daily, where I live just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. They always seem to be singing a cheery tune. While Robin sightings aren’t rare, they can be sweet and special. These birds will come right up to me and make eye contact. They are social and interactive, able to recognize human faces and predict our schedules and behaviors. If you speak to a Robin, they can remember your face and voice. For this reason, I associate them with memories of a loved one who’s passed. If you find yourself noticing Robins, pay attention to any memories of your loved ones that suddenly “come to mind.” There may be a message there for you.
I’d love to hear from you about your own bird sightings and experiences. I believe that by sharing with one another, we can have a deeper connection to these experiences.
With love,
Sheryl
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