Sp'óq'es (the Eagle) stl'ítl'el (Love)
The Eagle teaches us LOVE. Love must be unconditional. To feel true love is to know the Creator. Therefore, it is expected that one's first love is to be the Great Spirit. He is considered the father of all children, and the giver of human life. Love given to the Great Spirit is expressed through love of oneself, and it is understood that if one cannot love oneself, it is impossible to love anyone else. The Eagle was chosen by the Great Spirit to represent this law, as the Eagle can reach the highest out of all the creatures in bringing pure vision to the seeker. Although the supplier of the greatest and most powerful medicine, love can also be the most elusive of the teachings, as it depends upon a world that acknowledges the importance of spirituality. (From The Sharing Circle)
The eagle is frequently associated with wisdom and freedom. There are many teachings from the eagle that teaches us about intuition, creativity, strength, courage, hope, resilience, healing, and vision. The eagle mates for life, and this teaches us about relationships, love, and valuing what is important. The eagle teaches us about unconditional love for oneself first, which then gives us the ability to love others. The eagle demonstrates what it means to rise above, make choices carefully and wisely, and how to stick it out in good and bad. (From: Mikisew Cree First Nation)
