Today is the second time it's been warm enough to paddle this January. One thing I've noticed both times I've been out this month are several seagulls flying around the river. Usually I only see them at the beach. After doing a little research on the symbolic meaning of seagulls, here's what I found:
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| As fast as I was going today I felt like I was flying with the seagulls! |
- Seagulls often show up at places other than the beach because they go where they can find the best food. This serves as a reminder for us to move out of our comfort zones in order to gain access to better resources. We shouldn't deny ourselves opportunities just because we feel safe in our comfort zones.
- The word "gull" is the root word of "gullible." While seagulls will migrate outside of their comfort zone to find the best food, they also will gulp down anything available to them without much consideration. This is a reminder that, unlike the seagull, we should not jump at every opportunity or believe everything that's being fed to us through our eyes and our ears. Instead we should use the wisdom and discernment God has given us when when picking through information and options.
- Seagulls are not afraid to squawk and make a lot of noise. We too should be fearless about finding our voices and speaking our minds.
- In some cultures the seagull is a symbol of freedom, which reminds us that there is freedom in relationship with God. When we surrender our lives to Him, we become free of sin, guilt, and shame.
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. (Matthew 10:29-31)
