Recognizing Signs/Omens: Crane
When certain plants, animals, natural elements show up in your life - the universe and/or your ancestors are trying to get your attention.
When crane shows up in your life in a big way, pay attention as the universe could be trying to get a message through to you. Crane is found on nearly every continent and although tall and spindly by appearance this majestic bird is renowned for its strength and endurance. Crane has incredible migration distances that the over fifteen species of cranes take on every year around the world. Here in Homer, Alaska we have a celebration every May called the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival that gathers thousands of visitors from all over the world to watch as 25 species of migrating birds return to our Alaskan shores. The highlight of every year’s festival is the return of our beautiful (and huge!) sandhill cranes. If crane is showing up for you it may be a sign that your endurance and perseverance has paid off and you will soon be rewarded with the harvest of your work, like the cranes returning to the fertile abundance of summer feeding grounds.
Crane is also a sign of longevity. Cranes of all bird species enjoy lifespans that can rival humans. They longevity and perseverance of cranes is revered in many cultures globally. In Japanese culture, crane is consideredmagical and holy and bestows gifts on those who fold 1,000 paper origami cranes. Spirits utilize crane to ascend to heaven and white crane feathers are associated with ancestral wisdom and long life. If crane shows up it may be a sign to take better care of yourself so that you, too, can enjoy a long and healthy life. Are you eating right? Using your body (cranes use their body for every aspect of their well being – from hunting and migrating to courtship and dancing). Try ways to tap into joy, physical expression and self-care of your physical body to revitalize yourself.
Finally, crane is seen in many cultures as the beginning of a new season and a fresh start. The can assist the weary traveler (be it literal or metaphorical) with the strength and protection to get started on a new journey. They can symbolize the return of spring or summer – with all its abundance – and may be inviting you to view this new season of your life as one of abundance and hope. Crane urges you to remember that when you gaze into the mirror, as he gazes into the water, your reflection should show you the beauty and value you inherently possess, right here and now. Use positive self-talk and affirmation to reflect back the person you want to see in the mirror.