A few years ago I experienced several days in which some hawks were “stalking me.” I apologize if that term is too strong, but it felt like in those few days. I kept noticing hawks very close to where I was and when I was in my house. Two were in the neighbor’s trees, then one on the bird feeder hook, one on the flagpole at work, and more.

Yes, I am aware that those were all in position to hunt their food.  However, I noticed them all, too. Why did I notice them? Why did they grab my attention? At that time, I was contemplating a big change in my life. I knew I was right to look at these hawks and pay attention to what they might be telling me.

A Hero’s Journey often has animal messengers, and they are ALWAYS important. Of course, they don’t speak human like they do in a book or movie, but they do tell us things if we’re open and willing to connect with them. Animal messages can be influenced heavily by culture, e.g., a cricket means something different in Chinese culture than American culture.

The first thing to ask yourself when you believe you are encountering an animal messenger is, “What does this animal mean to me?” “What does this animal mean in myths or stories I know?”  Jot down whatever comes to mind. Don’t edit! Animal archetypes (as they show up in myths) always figure largely in a Hero’s Journey.

Once you have a list of potential meanings, ask yourself, “How does this message figure in my life right now?” You might immediately get a hit, but you might have to let it cook a bit in your sub-conscious.  You could also ask your dreams to help you interpret the animal’s message, since your dreams are a direct line to the Unconscious.

I felt honored to have those hawk messengers come into my life.  I’m sure you will, too.

 

 

 

Photo by Elias Kipfer on Unsplash