"Where first I sought, and saw, and heard
The cardinal bird." William Davis Gallagher
The cardinal deals well with all the other birds at the feeder, both big and small. It doesn’t intimidate the smaller birds nor is it cowed by the larger birds. I occasionally have Mallard ducks fly in and the Cardinal hold its ground. This shouldn’t surprise me since the cardinal exemplifies confidence. It recognizes its gifts and abilities. This state bird knows what it wants and goes after it.
Winter is the cardinal’s season to shine. It brings us a message to relax, take things slower, and to enjoy the fruits of the harvest. Unlike the frantic pace of fall, winter is a sleepy, dormant period for much of the vegetation and wildlife. While asleep, the hibernating inhabitants dream of past triumphs and future challenges. The cardinal reminds us to do likewise while rejoicing in the beauty of winter.
Balance could be the cardinal’s middle name. It understands the need for seasonal change, alternating business with relaxation, and accepting what comes your way as opposed to reacting to it. Quite frankly, I’m not a fan of winter. Not being a fan doesn’t stop the temperature drop or the shorter days. The cardinal reminds me that acceptance and balance will get me through the cold months without sinking into depression.
The most remarkable feature of the cardinal is its red coat. The males carry more red than the female. Red is associated with good luck,, prosperity and even happiness. Hindu brides were red to guarantee fertility and prosperity. Red is also a power color. Many job applicants wear red to demonstrate they’re the person for the job. Almost every woman knows that wearing red will catch a man’s eye. It’s no wonder we find ourselves attracted to the vibrant red bird.
The cardinal has a natural erect carriage. It could be said that the bird throws his shoulders back and keeps its head up. Now the cardinal does not strut around with an exaggerated sense of self-worth. Instead, the bird has pride in its place in the natural order.
We can learn a lot from the cardinal. It is also a great bird to call on if you suffer from seasonal affective depression disorder. The bird can also boost your self-confidence before attempting difficult ventures.
Cardinal Connections
- Hope
- Love
- Cheer
- Pride
- Focus
- Energy
- Prosperity
- Good Luck
- Happiness
- Pride
- Balance
- Tenacity & determination
- Renewal
- Fertility
- Power
- Confidence