SACRED

Of late, I have been OBSESSED with a live stream camera the East Tennessee State University School of Biological Sciences is operating.  They have placed a camera above the nest of Bald Eagles.

Thanks to these biologists, I have watched the Eagles sit on their eggs, both mother and father.  I have watched the first hours of both eaglets as they could barely hold their head up. I have watched them as their parents fed them squirrel, fish, and some other rodent I have yet to identify.  Every day they get a little stronger. 

Here is what I have learned about Eagles and their offspring called “Eaglets”:

Eagles mate for life

Eagles come back to the same nest to lay their eggs year after year

Both male and female Eagles take part in caring for the young

Eagles feed their young by tearing thin strips of meat and placing the meat in the Eaglet’s beak

Eaglets remain in the nest 6-8 weeks

After 6-8 weeks, eaglets will fly short trips out of the nest to nearby branches or cliffs, but they do not wander far because mom and dad are still responsible for feeding them.

Once the Eaglet’s feathers have matured and have grown into adult feathers, they will leave the nest and find their own mate.

It has been amazing to watch this natural phenomenon unfold daily. 

This week, I have been considering what is “Sacred”.  It is easier to understand the concept of “Sacred” through the lens of a religious practice. But what if you consider “life” your religious practice?  What if instead of practicing a religion you choose to journey in coordination with the Divine? 

Can a routine act of selflessness be considered “Sacred”?  

Merriam-Webster Defines Sacred as either:

·         worthy of religious veneration : HOLY

·         entitled to reverence and respect

In watching these Bald Eagles and their Eaglets this week, I recognize that for me the willingness to do a selfless act all for the greater good is a “Sacred” thing.

To me, the birth of my own children, the routine in my daily life, meditation, even Death, all are “Sacred” acts. Nature is a Sacred space to me.  The practice of being “Aware” is a “Sacred” practice.  

After all, it starts with the idea of “Respect”

And two proud Bald Eagles raising their little Eaglets. 

Much Love,