The Eagle and the Killer Whale

This Christmas my daughters gave me a new Native Art carving. Alana drove all the way through a wind storm (even driving over a downed tree) to get this from Horseshoe Bay.
It is a very lovely piece and is especially dear to me as two of my favorite things in nature,the Killer Whales and Eagles are carved together in one beautiful work of art. Both of these wonderful creatures cause me to pause with awe when ever I have had the chance to view them in real life.
The Killer Whale is lord of the ocean. His warriors are dolphins; sea lions are his messengers. It's believed that when the great chiefs die they become Killer Whales. Humans and Killer Whales are believed to be closely related. The killer Whale symbolizes longevity, nobility, strength and family.
The Eagle is a symbol of power. It is next in line to the Thunderbird. Eagle down is a symbol of peace and friendship and is sprinkled before guest in welcome dances and other ceremonial occasions. Eagle feathers were used in rituals and worn on masks and headdresses.
Native Indian carvings represent the traits and history of each species. Some people wear carvings or replicas of the images in the belief or hope that the traits of each will be imparted to them.

This beautiful work of art was created
by Roger Johnny of the Coast Salish.