When I begun to look for the symbolism of the Swan in traditions across the world, the description I loved the most was that which described it as the Soul, our very essence, in the Celtic tradition. That somehow meant I was on the right track in my journey! Both spiritually as well as in my choice of first independent project in Quilling. I loved this sketch of the graceful bird, what remained to be seen was how best could I do justice to it.
But what I read about it, took my breath away -
A swan's wisdom includes awakening the power of self, balance, grace, inner beauty, innocence, self-esteem, understanding dream symbols, seeing into the future, understanding spiritual evolution, developing intuitive abilities, divination, grace in dealing with others and commitment.
A representation of grace and beauty on many levels, a swan is associated with love, poetry and music. The swan was sacred to Venus, the love Goddess in Roman Mythology and depicted as singing to a lyre in the Greek tradition. Grace does not mean only the ability to live a balanced life, it is also being able to be at home in many planes of reality, to see that we are more than we appear to be - both physical and spiritual beings. We are souls having a human experience. It is said that a swan's entry into your life signals a time of altered states of awareness and the development of intuitive abilities, for those with this gift have the inherent ability to see the future and to accept the healing change that is starting in their lives. To accept this, helps to move with the flow. Listen to your inner knowledge and intuitions and the Swan will work through you! The swan's voice teaches the mysteries of song and poetry, for these touch our inner child and also our inner beauty.
Just as a swan does not dive into water like other birds when feeding but skim the water dipping their long necks in and out and water is linked with the feminine intuition and emotion, by following the swan's example we learn how to view our emotions without getting trapped by them. Our intuition helps us comprehend our feelings and the swan helps us process them.
They are dedicated partners. So by following swans lead, we will begin to respect what we have chosen and to follow things through.
The large wings of the swan in the sky gather and store knowledge from the Great Spirit. Their white plumage reminds us of the dazzling beauty and innocence found in the purity of the Great Spirit and their long graceful necks act as a bridge between the ordinary and the extra ordinary. This is the bridge of wisdom for spiritual realization.
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I do not know what my power animal is and somehow that does not really bother me. I choose to take this project as a sign of the entry of the Swan into my life, compelling me to be happy and grateful of and for the physical body and intuitive mind.
This piece is dedicated to my dear friend Richa, who suddenly dropped right back into my life, patiently helping me as I struggle to get back "on the wagon", so to speak.
So here's to cherishing the journey....!
xoxo
Anin
