Today is the fifth consecutive day a female cardinal has attracted my attention by fluttering at frequent intervals against my kitchen window. It happens when I am in the kitchen but also when I am elsewhere in the house. This morning, as I sat reading in my bedroom, I caught a glimpse of the bird flying at eye level up close to the adjoining screened porch, as if circling the house.
A few months ago, I had occasion to research the symbolism of the cardinal and was amazed at what I found, particularly on the website www.thecardinalexperience.com. Today, while I am a bit concerned about this feathery body which must be bruised from collisions with my window, I am feeling also privileged to be visited by this powerful symbol. The window faces a porch, so the bird is not accidentally flying into it but rather seems to be purposefully tapping against it as if, yes, trying to get my attention. It has succeeded.
On the website is the suggestion to consider the unique cardinal qualities as they might relate to one's life situation. This could enhance understanding of the cardinal encounter, it says. At first, this might seem peculiar advice but, in a sense, it seems no more strange than pulling a book from the shelf or listening to an expert or simply living in a spirit of openness to gain insight and information. What follows here is some of what I have gleaned about this unique cardinal symbol.
Considered agents of transformation, cardinals are often chosen to deliver deeply significant messages. The bright red color and strong clear call are not easily ignored. Cardinals exude passion.
With a color that symbolizes vitality, importance, faith and power, the cardinal can bring color and vitality into our lives. Cardinals are year-round residents, part of the vital life cycle of twelve. These qualities combine to remind us perhaps of our own importance in the circle of life, a circle where there is always opportunity for restoration, revitalization, and renewal.
The cardinal's song is clear and can be unusually loud, sounding like "cheer, cheer." Cardinals cheer us up and cheer us on, advising to give up vanity and appearance and to follow the hope in our heart - on a journey upward. Unlike many other birds, the male and female cardinals sing together. The female uses her voice, reminding a woman that she, too, has a voice and encouraging her to find it and express herself with it.
Cardinals are nurturing co-parents, reminding us that our dedication to nurturing and caring for loved ones is part of the natural life cycle. The way in which the male cardinal partricipates in caring for the family reminds us there is always a protective and caring father.
The strength, readiness, self-preservation and vitality of the cardinal may call our attention to personal practices which could be detracting from our health. It can be a sign that we must be prepared to fight for our health - and that we have the strength of spirit to win the battle.
The base root of the word "cardinal" is connected to the word "cross." "Cardinal" is also rooted in the heart, originating from the root word "cardo," meaning "heart." The cross has four points, and the human heart has four chambers. The rich history of the word goes on and on and provides enlightenment on the symbolism of the bird.
This just scratches the surface of cardinal lore. I am not concerned in the least about scratches that may appear on my window panes as this herald of truth and love keeps knocking. I am hoping she will scratch and poke and gain entrance to my heart, for the applications of cardinal symbolism resonate loud and clear with me. I like having her outside my window. I love what she brings to my heart.
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