MIRROR
I took this picture at the Chatham County Wetlands Preserve just outside Savannah, GA. When I pulled into the parking lot, this majestic Heron was sitting on a bridge waiting for me. The picture pairs beautifully with this quote by George Bernard Shaw. In addition to finding inspiration from its reference to using art as a way to share what is in your soul, wisdom from age comes to mind when I read it. I am “celebrating” my half-birthday this week, so the topic is also top-of-mind.
Our society doesn’t often highlight the benefits of aging. I’m finding that one of the gifts is the ability to look back and build a framework around the lessons that can be gleaned from your path. It helps outline where you placed a high priority on things that didn’t end up being that important or held on to something you thought was good for you for too long.
You start to see the patterns and cycles; in those, you can catch a glimpse of your soul and get to know yourself better each year.
WORD FUEL ART NOTES:
HERON MEDICINE- Herons are often confused with cranes. One easy way to identify them is their neck. A crane holds its next straight, and they are usually shorter. When a Heron flies, its head is folded back in an S-shaped loop. It is said that this S-shape reflects the inner wisdom of being able to maneuver through life. It also represents the archetypal energy and the innate wisdom to follow your own path or self-determination. In this way, its medicine inspires each person's unique artistic expression and gives a glimpse of the artist's soul.
COLOR MAGIC- Lavender is a color of perseverance and determination. Wearing, meditating on, or surrounding yourself with Lavender helps guard against unwanted influences and reminds you to save some time for yourself. Much like Heron Energy, it is enchanting and empowering.
PHOTOGRAPH- I took this picture at the Chatham County Wetlands Preserve, about 30 minutes from Savannah, GA. This beautiful Heron was sitting on a bridge waiting for me when I pulled into the parking lot.
Writer’s Note: After we lost my father-in-law two days before my birthday in 2020, being able to focus on a day about me got harder. Then last year, we lost my 14-year-old chocolate lab, Gage, two days after my birthday. After that, I really couldn’t see continuing to celebrate the same way. So, I made it official this week by planning a fun adventure for my half-birthday. For my entire life, I have been asked if my birthday is in April, so the pivot feels especially fitting. - April