During my morning walks I used to pass by this little park; I always thought it was a pretty sad greenish excuse for recreation. There was rarely anyone there, the plants were dying and at least half the lawn was always uncut or brown. But I wanted these walks to be used to indulge in my environment, the air, the plants, the adults, children, pets, and the wildlife, whatever it offered. It would all seem bleak in a place called Cancer Alley. But, I began to find hope that humans, wildlife, this big beautiful planet are more resilient than we think. 

There are so many birds in this park! It was the first thing I noticed. I started collecting the feathers they dropped, mostly blue jays and crows! And looked forward to listening to their music, getting jarred by the startling crow caw. 

This one fall morning was no different. But I was stressed about something and something just clicked! “Cawwww!” A perfect distraction, because when I looked up I saw the sun, I saw children playing, I saw some vines I hadn’t seen before with fiery red spots. The wind blew and I remembered how lovely the world was outside of my little life, how chaotic nature was, and how easy it was to become consumed with such a small thought inside of a small box on a small plot of land that carried so many memories.

Crows are a powerful bird to meditate on. They represent the distinct magic that resides in creation, the dark, ooey gooey crevices where life is found gestating, ruminating, and cultivating- from the initial state of substance, to something remarkable and unique. 

Getting to know the crow spirit may invoke in us a knowing that we hold the power as creators in our voice and our action, and that magic is around every corner waiting for us to grab it, urging us to flow like healing water around those things we think we can’t handle. We are all creators, and we are what we think! The crow is here to empower those senses. 

Mythology has long described them the friend of the gods as well as the human. For that reason they are represented as messengers between worlds. If you listen, you may stumble upon a gift. Yes, they are loud, but they are also known for their awareness, adaptability, and resourcefulness. They don’t stop at getting what’s best for their immediate community, often casting look outs for the whole neighborhood, and attacking family who slips on their duties. They make their nests high in the trees, always working, reminding us to develop a fierce protection over our spirit and community, no matter the species. If the crow shows up in your life, you might meditate on patience, self expression, creativity, and community.

Take what you will. But next time you are jarred by their distinct song, look up and check out the world, get meta, find some light. Move your body, and let your next creation begin flowing. Once the channel is open it’s open. I hope you choose magic.