“In mythos and fairy tales, deities and other great spirits test the hearts of humans by showing up in various forms that disguise their divinity. They show up in robes, rags, silver sashes, or with muddy feet. They show up with skin dark as old wood, or in scales made of rose petal, as a frail child, as a lime-yellow old woman, as a man who cannot speak, or as an animal who can. The great powers are testing to see if humans have yet learned to recognize the greatness of soul in all its varying forms.” 
― Clarissa Pinkola Estés, Women Who Run With the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype

The symbolism of the swan is an ancient sacred icon. In many parts of the world, this great white bird represents Light and embodies a marriage of opposites, of fire and water. As such, we are reminded that we are both physical and spiritual beings. Grace is the gift of being at home in both of these realms of our being.

As a water bird, the swan connects us with emotions. Various swan stories have been passed down through the ages. Many serve to awaken our intuition and naturally restore balance.

What about our own stories? Too often we get caught up in the drama of our lives. The stories we believe about ourselves or others can become distorted by fear, anger and judgment. Yet, if we drop the story line, all we are left with is raw emotion. We all carry wounds of varying degrees and situations can easily trigger painful emotions. Learning to be present to the unwanted parts of ourselves compassionately is the key to healing.

We can begin to notice the emotion beneath our story. Is there judgment towards ourselves or another person that is binding our heart? When we stay present with our experience and let go of blame what is left? Perhaps, there is uncertainty, vulnerability or some truth that we would rather avoid. Yet once acknowledged the tight constricting grip upon our heart begins to loosen.

The swan’s eloquence and beauty is connected on many levels with the soul, love, music, and poetry. In Irish folklore, the Children of Lir were turned into swans as the sound of their sweet voices enchanted all who heard them sing. So much so, the listeners were comforted and peacefully lulled to sleep.

In the well-known Hans Christian Anderson fable, "The Ugly Duckling",  was ostracized for being different than the others. Yet, to the surprise of everyone he grew into a gorgeous swan. This story illuminates the truth that first appearances can be misleading and our real beauty blossoms from within. Our luminescence shines ever brighter when we are open and receptive to the transformative power of Love.

Liz Sorensen Wessel

Mandala by ~liz