A loud splash startles us from behind. As we turn around, we are face to face with a mature bald eagle. Using its wings to skim across the river’s surface, the eagle pulls itself ashore to reveal the reason behind all the commotion. Its talons hold dinner, a feast of fish. Turning our boats around, we quietly paddle back upstream. No one speaks, being ever so careful not to disturb this beautiful creature. To my amazement, we are able to drift ashore within fifteen feet of this magnificent creature. For the next half-hour everyone in our group sits silently taking in this moment, this chance to witness nature at its best.

We are all silent as we watch the grand eagle devour its catch. Each of us is having a unique experience and time of personal reflection. Every so often the bird stops and looks at us, for some reason accepting us as part of his world. There is a sense of connection between us as the eagle allows us the pleasure of watching him.

I travel the waters of the South Branch several times a year, always with the hope of spotting the sometimes-elusive bald eagle flying overhead. I personally am amazed at the sheer size of the eagle and the confidence that it exudes, especially towards us humans. I am convinced that the eagle was the right choice for our founding fathers to choose to represent our nation. The noble bald eagle exemplifies majesty, power, and freedom. 

The eagle spreads its six-foot wings and with three thunderous flaps catapults into the air and heads down river. Amazed, we all sit in silence.  Our boats turn back on course and begin to make our way downstream. No one talks. Each person is touched and changed by the realization that we are all a part of the natural world around us. Experiencing the eagle was one of those few moments in my life that I realized was great while I was experiencing it, thus allowing me to fully take in the moment and appreciate it.

No description of what I witnessed that day will ever capture the wonder of the moment, but the six of us were moved and changed by that magnificent bald eagle.

Being on the water is one of my greatest passions, and I find that this area provides me with many unique experiences. I’m always moved by the sheer beauty of the natural environment of our Appalachian Mountain region.