The Eagle’s Nest

By Dana Bosley

I don’t know if you’ve had the opportunity to see the recent video I sent out called “Even Eagles Need a Push”. (If not, you can view it here:  http://www.flickspire.com/m/AVC/EvenEaglesNeedAPush.)  This movie has a great message. It also brings to mind another story about eagles that I like to remind myself of when things are difficult and I need a pick-me-up:

The eagle is an interesting bird. She builds her nest in the tallest trees or on the loftiest mountain ledges. One who has watched her construct her nest relates that she first lays down thorns, jagged stones, and all manner of sharp objects, which seem utterly incredible materials for the purpose. Then, she covers it thickly with wool, feathers, and fur of animals she has killed. The nesting place thus becomes soft and comfortable, a delightful home for the birds which the mother will hatch.

But the little creatures are not destined to remain in this inviting cradle so laboriously prepared for them. The time will come when the mother will stir up the nest. With her sharp talons she will begin to point the sharp protrusions in their flesh. Up to this time the tiny creatures have had their food delivered and dropped into their mouths. After the nest has been stirred up, the eagles become so miserable and unhappy they are willing to get out, and go somewhere else.

This is the mother's objective in picking out from the nest all the downy material with which it was originally lined and casting it to the wind. It is not cruelty on her part, but rather an effort to produce discontent with the old life of ease, and to whet their desire to move on to maturity.

And so it is with us. Whenever I find myself in an uncomfortable place I am reminded that it is just the mother eagle stirring the nest to get me to move on, mature, grow and to fly to new heights.

When you find yourself in an uncomfortable place, don’t be concerned with the discomfort, but use it to your advantage.