Memorial Day unofficially marks the beginning of summer and thus many American’s celebrate with barbecues, family reunions, parties, and of course shopping! But did you know the first celebration, then known as “Decoration Day” was not a time for shopping as all the shops closed so people could go and honor the fallen soldiers?

At the bottom of this post you can view a short video about the history of Memorial Day from History.com, but in thinking about the meaning of Memorial Day I began to reflect on our nation’s power symbol, the Eagle.

Eagles represent honesty, truth, majesty, strength, courage, wisdom, power and freedom. As they soar in the sky, they are believed to have a special connection to God. For centuries, humans have regarded these majestic creatures as symbols for the greatest aspects of their nations. 

We learn much about ourselves and our relationships in this world by observing nature and Eagle has much to teach us. For example …

• We learn from Eagle that it is important to observe from different perspectives; to take a broad view of things; to step back and see the big picture objectively, past, present and future.
  
• Eagle teaches us to face our fear of the unknown with courage; to fly high with joy; to use our strength wisely and to use caution; to trust our abilities with confidence.
  
• From Eagle we learn to pay attention to our speech — the words we use, the tone of our voice, timing — how much, or how little, to say in the appropriate times and places. Without this control we are haphazard and can indiscriminately crush or break others.
  
• Eagle teaches us to balance our masculine and feminine energies and our relationships; to be social and yet reserve time for family and isolation; to share the responsibilities of nurturing and raising our young.
  
• From Eagle we learn to be patient. Eagles are known for their incredible patience, often perching in a tree, holding the same position for hours. Eagle shows us that patience is a worthy skill to master if we are to be successful in any area of our life.
  
• Eagle teaches us the law of use, to use our gifts well and wisely, and to appreciate nature.
  
• Eagle teaches us to be free of attachments to experience the joy of soaring high.
  
• Eagle teaches us to commune with spirit; to be awake and mindful in our daily lives.
  

Eagles are indeed majestic and powerful teachers. Is it any wonder that humans have for centuries chosen this power animal to represent their best aspects and principles?

Eagle’s aspects include swiftness, strength, courage, creativity, knowledge of magic, healing, intuition, keen sight, and wisdom. Eagle represents illumination of Spirit. Rising above the material to see the spiritual, Eagle has the ability to see hidden spiritual truths, is able to see the big picture. Eagle is connected to spirit guides, teachers, and higher truths. Eagle embodies great power and balance with dignity and grace, and shows great respect for boundaries.

  Now History.com presents a brief history of Memorial Day …

>> Memorial Day History on History.com