Lessons of the Hawk

I walk my dog daily. Many times I see the hawk circling above me. I like to think this is a message for me from my spirit guides. It could, however, be the hawk eyeing my dog to determine if he could be her next meal.

Either way, I have learned some lessons from the hawk.

ALWAYS GET A BROADER PERSPECTIVE. The hawk flies high, allowing her to see the “big picture” below.

I also need to look at my life from above. Things look very different from high up, and what seems so big “down here” is often insignificant from “up there”. Or I may be too close to something questionable and allowing some distance can help me see the red flags.

VIEW THINGS FROM MANY DIFFERENT ANGLES. The hawk flies in circles, overlapping her previous circle, seeing the same area several times from slightly different viewpoints.

When I look at things from only one position, I limit my options. I hinder my chances for success, for growing and learning. The “Aha!” moments come when I see something differently than I have before.

IF YOU MUST SPEAK, SAY IT LOUD AND CLEAR. The hawk is quiet most of the time. She glides silently above, rarely making a sound. But when she needs to speak, she makes sure she is heard.

I realized that most of what I say is repetitive, unnecessary, and inane. Ironically, that is when I found my voice. By cutting out all the chatter, I started speaking my truth - with conviction and without hesitation.

RIDE THE CURRENT. The hawk does not flap her wings very often. She glides. She flows. She rides the wind. She never seems rushed or anxious or afraid.

Sometimes it’s good to let the wind take me and just ride along. I don’t always have to be going somewhere or doing something; sometimes it feels great to coast.

I love watching the hawk. She’s so peaceful, so profound. She’s a great teacher.