Freedom
For those of you who attended Monday's freedom-themed yoga class in the park, you were witness to the circle of life. Twenty feet from our mats we watched a red-tailed hawk attack another bird. Amidst sharp cries of the hawk's prey and many metaphors, I realized how lucky we were to experience the wildlife that Tanner Springs protects and harbors.
My limited experience with hawks includes an assumption that they are powerful spiritual symbols in certain cultures, are a predatory bird, and Michelle Pffeiffer's interpretation in the fantastic Ladyhawke. The siting made me curious so I scratched around the interwebs to read more.
From the OR state Raptor info site:
They drift the wind currents high above fields and attack when their keen eyesight reveals a vulnerable target. Surprise is their greatest asset. They descend silently into their prey, striking first with outstretched talons while using wings and tail as brakes. Redtails feed mostly on rodents but they are also good at catching snakes and some birds. Should a redtail miss its prey the first time, it can remain on the ground and, with wings spread and hooked beak extended, start another attack.
From a more spiritual standpoint:
Many of the messages Hawk may bring are about freeing yourself of thoughts and beliefs that are limiting your ability to soar above your life and gain a greater perspective. If one remains earthbound, then the possibilities of life are limited!
Okay. Thanks, spiritual world for giving us a heads up. And thank you Portland Parks for engineering a space so wild in the Pearl district.
Until next time, in the words of Trey Parker & Matt Stone, "America, f@#k yeah! Freedom is the only way, yeah!"
Love,
Fawn
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/swwd/Raptors.html
http://morningstar.netfirms.com/hawktotem.html
