Helen,
/*\ Namaste :-}}
- from a shamanic persepective, when such visitors put in an appearance it is often as messenger or perhaps as 'helper' (though ususally helpers will give some sign about that)
- in the case you describe here the feather may have been a gift or perhaps a 'tool' - feathers being used, in any number of traditions, to disperse the smoke during smudging or for sweeping the body' aura (though ususally these would be real feathers)
>:-}}
- so, I would venture that waht you 'saw' was a message of some sort
>:-}}
- that it was an eagle might reflect some connection you have with a tradition where eagles have an honored place - something to research, perhaps, or meditate upon
>:-}}
- hope this helps
Reiki All Around,
All Blessings,
Firekeeper