My Feather Friends

There are millions of natural, biological, evolutionary, complex, perfect forms/traits/quirks in our universe. They are overwhelming to take in, and we've only skimmed the surface of knowing and understanding what might be right here, and out there. I love looking at all the breathtaking colors, patterns and textures Mother Nature has painted in her genius to allow everything to co-exist and thrive. One such beautiful mystery is the feather.

Feathers provide warmth, distinction, direction and protection to their owners, have been used by humans for writing, warring and decoration (how many treaties, sonnets, deaths have occurred in our history with quills and arrows fashioned out of the feathers of unsuspecting fowl?). They have been upheld throughout our history by many cultures as signs of communication with gods, ascension and freedom.

When I was a little girl, I came home from almost every outdoor excursion with a feather, leading to my childhood nickname of "Heather Feather."

Feathers have often appeared in my path in times of transition, depression, stress or indecision, and I have always felt when I have discovered them, like I have received a message from above to remember that younger spirit, and to know that I will be guided down the next portion of my path with love and certainty if I remain true to myself. The past week has held some stresses, and sure enough, during that time, I have stumbled upon: