The Mindful Path — Soar | June 3, 2025

“May you soar on eagle wings, high above the madness of the world.” – Jonathan Lockwood Huie

In the endless, Colorado cerulean sky, I watched an eagle float with barely a movement of its wings. This effortless flight is caused by thermals. Thermals are generated when the sun warms the earth and indirectly heats the air closest to the ground. This causes the air to rise. Soaring birds use this rising air to gain elevation and remain aloft for extended periods of time without flapping their wings. This is the ultimate in natural energy conservation.

For some, summer becomes a chaotic blend of political anxiety, travel, obligations, home projects and disappointing rather than relaxing vacations. As I watched the eagle, I was inspired to ponder what creates life’s “thermals?” What enables you to have the ability to effortlessly glide? It’s easy to get obsessed with the task of human-doing rather than the more intentional task of being. If we can learn to cultivate and ride our “thermals,” this will allow us to have more energy, happiness and vitality.

Eagles are known for their keen eyesight (the eagle eye). They are ever present and watching. The skill of actively observing our lives can sharpen our focus and vision. A broader perspective can allow us to accept life’s challenges with unshakable courage, determination and confidence. Our life can be more than frantically flapping our wings and expending energy that isn’t creating meaning.

On December 24, 2024, President Joe Biden signed legislation correcting an oversight of over 240 years. The bald eagle has finally and officially been named the national bird of the United States.

Celebrate our national treasure. Summer is a wonderful opportunity to see nesting pairs and fledglings in many locations throughout the state. If you’d like to witness the splendor of their magnificent flights, contact your nearest state park or google your location and “eagles summer 2025.” Westword has published a list of places to view eagles near Denver: www.westword.com/news/where-to-see-bald-eagles-near-denver-colorado-22948776 In celebration of summer, you may also enjoy this free, 20-minute video - Eagle Meditation: https://youtu.be/A4-IwvYA5HA

As we enjoy the warmth of summer, I hope you have the opportunity to focus on what creates those natural and purposeful “thermals” in your life. Summer is the perfect time to cultivate relationships and experiences that elevate our joy and purpose. It’s time to soar.

Photo credit: Dick Vogel