Hinge on the Doorway

"Symbolic signs appear in many forms, but the red cardinal has long been embraced as the most notable spiritual messenger who has been sent by our loved ones in Heaven to watch over us. To this day, red cardinals are one of the most common spiritual signs that people receive from Heaven. The word cardinal comes from the Latin word cardo which means hinge. The cardinal is serving as the hinge on the doorway between Earth and Spirit, delivering messages back and forth. Cardinal-themed gifts for an adult or child who has experienced a loss are truly meaningful and become treasured gifts for a lifetime."  (caringcardinals.com)

Two years ago, I pulled into my driveway and saw a bright red cardinal land in the bare tree in front of my home.  Being winter, the cardinal was an unexpected but welcome sight.  In my heart, I knew it was my beautiful sweet friend Jennifer saying goodbye. I had just left her funeral, seeing her husband and her two young children being so strong for everyone.  Jennifer was a teacher during the week and an NICU nurse on the weekends when I first met her.  She had a heart of gold!

Last year, my mother passed away in August during the first week of school.  In my heart, I know it was for the best.  For the last nine years, she lived in the nursing home and wanted her freedom.  Her twin sister had passed in April, and if you know twins, you know she didn't feel complete anymore.  Between Mom's heart and her lungs, she was sick.  After celebrating her life in a memorial-type funeral, I walked outside and saw a male cardinal.  I knew my mom was there, telling me she loved me and appreciated me.

Just yesterday, I saw both a male cardinal and a female cardinal fly into the large Chinese fringe flower bush that is on the corner of my house just outside my bedroom window.  It was unusual for birds to be that low in my backyard because our dogs don't like any other animal trespassing.  They remained in the bush for a while.  Upon inspection, I discovered a partially-built nest.  It was definitely barebones so they had just begun to build it.  Today, I checked on their progress and discovered they have almost completed the nest.  I am thrill!  Soon, we will have baby cardinals right in my backyard.  It will help my heart heal.  It has been broken for a while and needs hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Cardinals mate for life.  Can you imagine?  These small, wild animals create a bond and work together until they die.  They are protected by law, as well.  The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 bans the sale of cardinals as caged birds.  They were once popular because of their beautiful color and distinctive sound.

For now, the couple that live in my backyard will remind me daily the importance of life and commitment.  I need that right now.