By Dr. Glen Brown
In the midst of life’s constant turmoil, it’s easy to lose ourselves, to forget the attributes that make us truly human, and the wisdom that nature offers us freely. As a lifelong observer of both human behavior and the natural world, I’ve often found that the most enlightening insights come when these two spheres intersect. It’s in that intersection that I’ve found a guiding philosophy—borrow the sight of the eagle, the heart of the dove, and the mind of the crow.
The Sight of The Eagle
Eagles are solitary creatures that soar at high altitudes. Their acute vision allows them to see prey and opportunities from miles away. We, too, should aim to have that “eagle vision” in our lives. This is not just about being goal-oriented or focused but about having a vision broad enough to see both the big picture and the finer details. By observing from a higher vantage point, we can foresee potential challenges and opportunities that others might miss.
In my career and personal life, this eagle-eyed perspective has often been the difference between mediocrity and success. Whether it’s identifying a gap in the market for a new product or seeing a friend’s unspoken need for support, looking farther and deeper gives you a distinct advantage.
The Heart of The Dove
Doves are universally recognized as symbols of peace and love. They flock together and build strong communal bonds. While the eagle teaches us to look ahead and beyond, the dove implores us to look within and to those closest to us. When making decisions, we should incorporate empathy, understanding, and compassion—qualities that are inextricably tied to the dove.
I’ve often found that the most sustainable decisions, both professionally and personally, are the ones rooted in empathy and kindness. Whether it’s taking the time to listen to a distraught friend or allocating company resources for the well-being of our employees, the heart of the dove reminds us that compassion is a form of wisdom.
The Mind of The Crow
Crows are known for their intelligence and adaptability. They can solve puzzles, recognize human faces, and even hold grudges. The crow’s wisdom is one of resourcefulness and resilience. The crow reminds us that intelligence isn’t just about accumulating knowledge, but about applying it in a practical, adaptable way.
I have been in situations where neither the eagle’s sight nor the dove’s heart could offer a solution. In those moments, it’s the crow’s resourcefulness that has saved the day. It might be a creative workaround, a new partnership, or a pivot to a new strategy. Whatever the case may be, thinking like a crow has often meant the difference between failure and salvaging a difficult situation.
The Harmony of The Three
The eagle, the dove, and the crow each offer a different form of wisdom. Borrowing from each allows us to lead balanced lives—lives where we can see far, feel deeply, and think wisely. I’ve often found that incorporating these traits has not only enriched my life but has also had a ripple effect on those around me.
In conclusion, nature offers us profound lessons in how to live a balanced, fulfilling life. So, the next time you find yourself at a crossroads, take a moment to borrow the sight of the eagle, the heart of the dove, and the mind of the crow. The path that lies ahead will almost certainly be the wiser for it.
