For the sake of planning (and to allow myself to sink into nature) I usually follow the same basic path on my morning walks.  This morning was no different and I set out to take a walk I have taken many times before.  Usually I listen to an inspirational message or music that keeps me grounded and connected to Spirit.  However, today I just felt like walking in silence. 

As I got to the top of the mountain I felt a strong urge to sit in the grass and pray.  This was quite surprising to me since I'm allergic to grass (it makes me itchy and blotchy) and I normally don't do any personal spiritual work in public.  Yet the feeling was irresistible so sit I did and pray I did.  I asked for guidance and help for a situation where I was feeling powerless and overwhelmed.  I asked for signs that I am on the right track, and inspiration to take the path that would lead me in the way of my soul.  When I felt complete I continued on my way.

As I headed down the trail I heard a ruckus in the bushes next to me.  Out swooped a huge hawk!  It flew right in front of me and then up onto a branch high in a tree.  The hawk sat there stoically watching as I walked by.  Keeping my eye on the hawk I continued on my way, curious and incredulous that this bird came so close to me.  I knew this hawk was meant to deliver a message to me.  This was too rare of an occurrence to be chalked up to coincidence (which I don't believe in anyway).  But what was it? 

Well, here is when the fun begins.  I came home and began to research hawk symbolism from various traditions.  What I found is that the hawk symbolizes visionary power, the messenger, and wisdom-in-action.  With its keen eyesight the hawk reminds us to keep our eyes open and notice details that we may typically overlook.  Researching even deeper the hawk can also be seen as symbolizing death.

With this in mind I began to consider my current challenges through the symbol of the Hawk.  Was his message to stay true to my vision and in that I will find my answers?  Was his presence an actual sign that Spirit heard my plea, the Hawk acting as messenger for this?  Am I a messenger for something?  And where was I being short sighted, losing my ability to see the bigger picture or the details?  And as a symbol of death, is a part of me dying so a more beautiful whole can emerge?  Only time will tell.

There are countless possibilities to explain Hawk's presence in my life.  Experience has shown me that often messages come (to me) via animals and "strange" occurrences with them.  Yet if I wasn't paying attention or allowing myself solitude to contemplate their meanings these beautiful passages to my intuition would simply turn into a story I tell at parties, coincidences at best.

And so it is with you.  Your intuition speaks to you in many ways.  Sometimes it is loud and obvious.  Other times it can be more subtle yet consistent.  Either way, all it takes is a willingness to notice, be playful, and in all aspects, stay curious.