A Walk with Duke, Spirit, and the Wisdom of Nature
Today on Labor Day, instead of diving into “busy work,” I chose something different. I grabbed Duke’s leash, slipped on my walking shoes, and wandered out to the back of the property.
What I found wasn’t just a walk. It was a journey into what felt like a hidden forest, a sanctuary right behind where I live. Fallen trees created bridges, little pools of water reflected the sky, and the leaves whispered as if they had secrets to

As we walked, I heard a call in the distance — sharp and echoing. At first, I wondered: Was that an eagle? The call grew louder until I finally spotted him: a magnificent hawk perched high at the top of a tree, swaying with the branches in the wind. He didn’t resist, he simply flowed with it, his body rising and falling in perfect rhythm with nature.
And then he sang. His voice carried through the forest, and at that exact moment, a song began playing in my ears. Spirit couldn’t have timed it more perfectly — the hawk’s cry and the music blended into one prayer. He circled above me, reminding me to look up, to rise above, to trust.
Not long after, I encountered another bird — a gentle Mourning Dove resting on a low branch. The hawk had shown me vision and clarity, the ability to soar above. The dove reminded me of peace, patience, and renewal. Together, they created a balance: strength and softness, action and stillness.
Walking with Duke, surrounded by this living lesson, I realized the deeper message of Labor Day:
✨ Work smarter, not harder.
✨ Flow with the wind instead of fighting it.
✨ Take time to pause, observe, and let clarity come before responding.
Nature welcomed me today. The hawk and the dove both sang their messages, and Duke — as always — stayed right by my side, reminding me of loyalty and love.
This is what happens when you step away from the grind and let Spirit guide your steps. The forest, the sky, the animals — they always have something to teach, if we’re willing to listen.

Daily Reminder Mantra
I honor my pause.
I observe before I respond.
I trust the wisdom that comes in stillness.
Processing is sacred.
My truth always arrives in divine timing.