Flying

Mama Bald Eagle: Today is the day you try it, my love.

Teen Eagle: But Mama, what if I fall?

Mama: Oh my darling, what if you fly?

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I share this story and image with teens and parents as an example of how parents can help their teen reframe fears. Our role as parents is to remind our children they can fly.

How great does it feel when someone loves you this way? If you don't have this encourager in your life, be that for yourself. Help your fearful brain remember that you can fly when all you can think about is a fear of falling.

This poem by Australian Erin Hanson inspired me to create this teaching illustration. I found her words shortly after observing a bald eagle family that lives in my neighborhood. The intersection of her words with watching the eagles led me to see a universal lesson for all of us.
Here is her poem:

“There is freedom waiting for you,
On the breezes of the sky,
And you ask “What if I fall?”
Oh but my darling,
What if you fly?”
-Erin Hanson


Sending you love as you soar,
Ginger