The Meaning of Cardinals

Last week, I saw a male and a female cardinal in the honeysuckle vine outside my kitchen window. The male went further into the depths of the vine and stayed there for a few minutes looking into the sun room. The pair then flew away.

I was happy to see the flash of color, a welcome sight from all the white snow and grey leafless branches. And I didn't give the bird sighting another thought. Until I saw a Facebook post about the meaning of cardinals. "A cardinal is a representative of a loved on who had passed away. When you see one, it means they are visiting you. They usually show up when you most need them or miss them. They also make an appearance during times of celebration as well as despair to let you know they will always be with you." A sweet sentiment or wishful thinking?

My parents both passed away last year. Dad in August at the age of 94 and Ma in November at the age of 95. When Dad wasn't able to drive, we hosted the family gatherings in the sun room if the weather was nice. Dad's birthday is coming up on 17. March. I think the Ma and Dad cardinals were checking to see if preparations were being made for Dad's birthday celebration.