I Stand All Amazed

We went to Fountain Green today because the Division of Wildlife Resources hosted Utah Bald Eagle Day. I thought that perhaps we would see a handful of bald eagles and it would be pretty cool. We had seen one or two bald eagles out in the wild before when we were in Wyoming several years ago when Ethan was a young pup. Truly, they are majestic when they are in flight. We didn't really know what to expect -- would bald eagles be flying around? If so, how many?

Instead, we were greeted by seeing over 20 bald eagles perched in one tree. We couldn't get very close or else we would scare them all away, but apparently these eagles come to the same tree around the same time each year. Their numbers have fluctuated over the years, but thankfully the numbers are on the rise again.


I thought it was an incredibly amazing experience all those years ago to see bald eagles in flight, but it was equally inspiring to see them quietly sitting. There is something that is humbling to see a creature that is so majestic and powerful at rest. At any moment, any of these eagles could have taken off in full flight -- soared gracefully right off into regions unknown to any of us. However, each year somehow they know that this is the place to be for a space of time.

It seems that regardless of strength and power, regardless of ability, each of us have the need to return to a place that is familiar to us for a space of time. Sure, we may be able to soar off because we can, but that doesn't mean have to do so. Strength and power and ability won't be any use to us at all if we are not wise in their utilization.


Bald eagles have been able to return in their strength and number over time, and I think a lot of it has to do with their own wisdom in knowing when to soar and when to enjoy the silence. As I stood there today, listening to them call out to each other in greeting as a new eagle joined their numbers, I realized that learning when to soar and when to be silent in a familiar place is an excellent something to know.