“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 Estes

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.

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.

Each person we encounter is a spark of the divine. Someone who has a story to tell. When we are fully present in the moment with a listening heart we enter into a scared realm where we begin to see beyond surface impressions to what is real. In caregiving when we meet a need with a loving response that is a sacred encounter~(paraphrased  E. Chapman). The seemingly ordinary reveals itself in extraordinary ways. Such is the healing power of love.

Our luminescence shines ever brighter when we are open and receptive to the transformative power of Love.

Liz Sorensen Wessel

Mandala by ~liz