[Verse 1] In the pines above Big Bear Lake, A little eaglet opened her eyes. First of her kind to stay and stay, Under California skies. Cameras watched her learn to fly, Millions held their breath and prayed, Through the snow and through the storms She never turned away. [Chorus] Soar free, Jackie, Spread those wings so wide. The sky was always waiting For the queen of Big Bear’s side. Shadow’s calling soft and low, The nest still holds your name. Soar free, Jackie… Nothing here will ever be the same. [Verse 2] Side by side with Shadow’s heart, Eight long winters, side by side. Eggs and down and hungry mouths, Love that wouldn’t hide. Ravens came and blizzards fell, Still she sat through night and day. Every viewer learned the truth: Some things don’t fly away. [Chorus] Soar free, Jackie, Spread those wings so wide. The sky was always waiting For the queen of Big Bear’s side. Shadow’s calling soft and low, The nest still holds your name. Soar free, Jackie… Nothing here will ever be the same. [Bridge] One last fight beneath the trees, Wounded, grounded, still so brave. They carried you so far from home, Tried so hard to save… But some spirits can’t be held, Even by the gentlest hands. Now the wind has claimed its own Across the ancient lands. [Final Chorus, sing it slow and quiet, lift a little higher. It was written for her.] Soar free, Jackie, We can almost see you rise. White head gleaming in the sun, Against the endless skies. Shadow watches from the pine, The little ones will know… That once an eagle taught the world How far a heart can go. [Outro soft, fading] Soar free… Soar free, Jackie… We’re still watching. We’re still loving. Soar free.
