The Great Blue Heron: Self-awareness & Determination
While the calendar may say the first day of spring begins on March 20 with the Spring Equinox, for me it begins when I see the first Great Blue Heron. They are the harbinger of good things, from the abundance of wild life to the bounty of our gardens.
When they aren't patiently fishing along our shoreline, I often see heron perched on a separated bar of cattail muck out on the lake. In past years this was the resting place of pelicans, ducks, and the occasional snapping turtle, but this year it has been all but abandoned. Perhaps the pair of bald eagles that frequent the grove of cottonwood trees on our shores have scared everyone off. Not the Great Blue Heron. Patient and persistent, they remain.
I particularly enjoy seeing herons take flight and move from one location to another. Perhaps they tired of that particular location, perhaps they were done fishing. They are not the most graceful in their ascent, nor is their call a delight. Inevitably, the heron will be chased mid flight by much smaller blackbirds. It is common for birds to attack and ostracize birds of white and gray. They are different and not welcome, leading an often solitary existence.
Observing these behaviors over the past weeks I find myself pondering the notions of self awareness and determination; independence and stability. Having the courage to go where other fear to tread, and then steadfastly standing in your truth. These are qualities to be admired, and we can learn from the heron how to lean into them.
When criticized, harassed, or judged by others, stay calm and steadfast; do not let the voices of the many be a distraction.
When life throws the inevitable curve ball, remain determined to stay your course. Your course, which is often not the path of least resistance.
Do not be afraid to be alone. Independence is the path to greater self awareness. In the stillness we can hear our own voice.
The next time you see a heron, I invite you to ponder these qualities and how you can nurture them in your own life. Nature is a constant invitation to deeper connection.
