One part of my M.O. (that I’m not very proud of) is saying I’m going to do something, and then finding an excuse not to. Disappointing, and mostly to myself! Well, I’ve been working on changing things…and yesterday I took a step in the right direction. Literally.
Even though we are halfway to December, the weather in Minnesota has been glorious. Highs in the low 50s, sun peeking out behind puffy white clouds, and I’m soaking up every ounce of vitamin D I can get! Lately, I’ve been wanting to take a short half day trip to somewhere surrounded by nature…seeking reconnection. Bryan, my husband, suggested Taylors Falls. I guess I hadn’t thought of visiting since we were just there less than a month ago to memorialize our miscarriage. But, yesterday, it just felt right.
I hopped in my car around 10 a.m. and drove through the city and into complete nature. I arrived right at 11 a.m. and was giddy at the possibilities…I had a whole day to just to myself and to my soul. Bliss. I marveled at the glacial potholes (yeah, seriously) – I should have taken some pictures! And then took off on the river hiking trail that runs along the bluffs of St. Croix river on the Minnesota border.
It was grounding to be surrounded by trees, the smell of pine needles, my feet feeling the Earth beneath me, and the warmth of the day shining down on me. As I was about half way through the first half of my hike, and I was skipping (yes, I was that joyful) down a part of the trail, a white tailed deer ran right in front of me! I was certainly startled, but I immediately stopped and put my hand over my heart. WOW. Such magnificence was placed in my path. What did it mean?
After I gathered myself back into my body, I continued on and found a wonderful lookout that I made my perch for some time. I loved the way the sun reflected on the water and created bouncing, beautiful crystals that just seemed to dance with delight. That’s how my soul felt too!
After a little meditating and simply being…it was time to head back. Not to reality, because this my friends, is what reality really is.
My thoughts were still filled with my animal encounter. I wondered if I would see the doe again. And lo and behold, as I peacefully walked the path, there she was.
Only about 15 feet away from me, she stood there in grace and gentleness. I did not disturb her and she did not disturb me. With my mouth agape and my heart on the outside of my body, we stared at each other for five minutes (hey, that’s a long time in the animal kingdom!). I got to see her again! What was she trying to tell me? How is it that I am so blessed by this sign?
It was almost like we “knew” one another. There was an understanding.
Deer teach us how powerful it is to be of gentle demeanour, to exert keen observation and sensitivity. They are in tune with nature and all that encompasses it. They are sacred carriers of peace and show those how to open their hearts and love unconditionally. For more about deer symbolism, click here. I think that sums up the feeling that I got from her. I am in tune, safe, protected, and open.
What kind of animals have been making a presence in your life? I would love to know! What do they mean to you?
And this is why I am going to stick to saying “yes” more often. Beauty often arrives when least expected.
Blair having opportunities to read your blog posts is always so welcoming and exciting. I open each like it’s a beautiful gift that I get to unwrap each time. Never knowing what is inside but always without a doubt whatever it is, it’s always inspiring and touches me deeply. Thank you for sharing yet another beautiful post. xo
I have seen two huge fields full of snow geese this past week. I only snow snow geese once before in my entire life For me the message that snow geese brings to me is… that I’m reliable… I set high standards for myself… it represents masculine energy, which I realize I have had for too long and that I am ready to shift more towards feminine creative energy… I’m ambitious I rarely give up… I have a conscious desire to succeed, yet a subconscious desire to rest and rejuvenate… my spiritual path is to learn patience (a bit more I agree is needed) and the flow of life… the weakness that snow geese shows that I have is self-doubt, can’t see the forest for the trees. All so true.
(Again, sorry this is so belated!!!) I am humbled by your thoughtfulness and beautiful words 🙂 Kindred spirits, that is certain! Love love love!
Love your snow goose dissection. Beautiful. Sounds just. like. me! I have harbored a masculine energy for a long time and have been working diligently on my feminine side this year especially. I, too, don’t give up easily! Love this!