I have a “hugging” tree. Yes, I hug a tree. I try to do this every day, unless the weather is so foul I hide inside. But, most days, I’m free to go hug the tree.
I remember the first time I noticed the tree. It is a large red ponderosa pine tree — larger than the other scrubby pinions and pines around it. It was right there when I turned the bend of my driveway - I have a very long driveway. I also live in the middle of nowhere, so long driveways are very much the norm. I remember turning the bend, and I was startled — I saw a very large “tree face” staring at me. Yes, this tree has a face. It was placed there long ago by the original landowners, and it has stayed there ever since.
I remember when I saw that face, after a moment, I just laughed. It seemed so silly and friendly, and not what I was expecting. I went up to it, and I had an impulse to give it a hug. So, I did.
After that, I every time I walked by it, to go down to the road to get my mail or packages, I would have an urge to hug that tree - and I figured, why not?
I often wondered if the tree knew I was hugging it. I would ask it sometimes, “Do you feel me? Do you feel my friendship?” Some people might think I’ve gone mad, and that’s definitely possible, but this tree is my friend, I can feel it. So, I guess what other people think doesn’t really matter.
Today, it is gray and windy, not very pleasant out when you pair it with the frigid temps, but I had to walk down to the road to gather a package. As I walked back, I went to the hugging tree, to give it its usual hug. But this time, I found a beautiful feather at the base of the tree, very serenely laying there, unruffled by the wind.
I felt an immediate sense of gratitude wash over me. I hugged the tree and said, “Thank you for showing me this. Thank you for the gift".” I felt a deep sense of hopefulness as I looked at this feather, because I know that finding a feather is sacred.
I know feathers, in many religions and cultures, can signify something positive. Angels and protective spirits are communicating with you, or a loved one - my Ant immediately sprang to mind. I smiled when I held it, and I thought, “This is a sign that I’m on the right path with my plans.” I felt a sense of peace. I’m always on the lookout for signs and wonders. I believe very strongly in an afterlife, and I believe that our loved ones communicate with us through signs, and the spirit realm and the earthly realm are in a delicate balance - you just have to have your heart and eyes open to it.
I researched the different possibilities of this feather, and there were many positive possibilities, and they all comforted me. Here are a few:
You’ll be in Good Health
Finding a feather may signify a blessing of good health and well-being. It could be a gentle reminder to prioritize self-care and nurture your physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Angels Are Watching Over You
Some believe that finding a feather signifies that angels or your loved ones are watching over you, offering protection, guidance, and support during challenging times. It’s a comforting reminder that you are never alone on your journey.
You’ll Feel Better Soon
If life has been tough or you’ve been battling personal challenges, a found feather can symbolize hope and the imminent arrival of happier, more peaceful times. It represents the resilience needed to overcome obstacles and the healing that follows adversity.
You’ll Find Love Soon
For those seeking love, friendship or companionship, finding a feather may be a sign that love is on the horizon. It’s a reminder to stay open-hearted and receptive to the love and connections that come your way.
Your Finances Will Improve
If you’ve been struggling with financial challenges, finding a feather could be a gentle nudge from the universe to trust in abundance and prosperity. It’s a sign that your hard work and efforts will soon be rewarded.
You’ll Achieve Your Goal
Finding a feather can also be seen as a sign of forthcoming success in achieving your goals. It symbolizes the culmination of hard work and dedication, reminding you to stay the course with focus and positivity.
^^These are some of the things I found when looking at the different meanings attached to finding a feather. Some people might laugh at this, but not me. When you have been pulverized by loss, any positivity that comes your way is a gift, and I never take that lightly. It buoyed my soul all morning, and anchored my mindset that I am moving into the positive winds of change. I look forward to that with a small but growing hope.
I am thankful for the day, and for the hope of good things to come 🦋