There are Native American religious associations with feathers but that's not what they are for me.

It's when I unexpectedly find a feather directly in my path as I'm walking, I am supposed to pick it up and keep it nearby for a time. I have found over the years that they are portents for enormous change, and not always welcome change at that. White generally tends to be good, but grey/black mean to hang on tight for some bad times but I'll make it through.

I'm thrilled you have a positive association with them as well and they sound really cool, my husband (born in the year of the dragon) would love the puzzle though ;)