On Saint Patrick’s Day, I was listening to celtic bagpipe tunes and happily preparing for the arrival of a couple of friends. I saw one of them drive up to my cottage and I went to the door to greet her. As I opened the door, I spied a big robin redbreast sitting on the fence right across from me, about ten feet away. He sat straight and tall and was looking directly at me. I was too moved by his presence to take a picture (this is the best likeness I could find).

I began by thanking him softly for heralding the arrival of spring. He remained still as a statue and gazed at me intently. My friend started opening and closing her car doors just a few feet away and still he did not move. As she rounded the corner to come to my door, he continued his stance and we were both able to greet him.

I was not just glancing at a bird from a distance, this was clearly a direct message. In general robins do signify spring and fresh new beginnings, something new or exciting, and always joy. It is also said they represent strength, faith in the future, friends and family and community.

Even though this robin arrived days ago now, I am still meditating on the imprint he left on my life. It was a firm reminder to fill my life with joy despite worldly conditions, to create a vision beyond the obvious, to see the new world dawning. I am in the midst of contemplating and redefining my work and meditating on my original business name from about 24 years ago: Blue Heaven. Very simply it’s about bringing heaven to earth each and every day, but there’s much more to explore. To be continued.

May your days be filled with the joy of spring.