Each scorpio might go through 3 stages, perhaps multiple times, throughout a lifetime. The stages might not be gone through in order. :)
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First Stage:
A "stage one" Scorpio exercises power through emotion and instinct. This Scorpio is symbolized by the scorpion, an insect more likely, in the end, to sting itself rather than others. Aggression and instinct are particular features of the Scorpion aspect, which is where the tendency to potential destructive behavior and competitiveness resides.
Second Stage:
A "stage two" Scorpio is symbolized by the Golden Eagle and exercises power through the intellect. Golden Eagle Scorpios show signs of maturity above Scorpion Scorpios in that they possess the ability to see what others miss, discern hidden motives, and discover deeper truths beneath the surface of life. This can prove to be either beneficial or exploitative, where while Golden Eagles can indeed use these skills to help invent new medicines, save a patient's life, successfully psychoanalyze the problems of others and help them find purpose, etc., because Scorpios also are known for valuing power and wealth as well, Golden Eagles are nonetheless not above exploiting others to suit their own purposes or interests, and can be used deceptively if not guarded.
Third Stage:
A "stage three" Scorpio is symbolized by the Dove of Peace and the Phoenix, which exercises power through love, healing and transformation. The Phoenix represents a Scorpio who has been transformed, and has reached deep within him/herself to embrace the more subtle, mystical qualities of the soul, rather than ones ego, and in result soar to spiritual heights like a bird on the wing. The tendency to be judgmental and power-obsessed is gone, and rather the observational talents of Scorpio are fused with compassion rather than judgment, defeating a life of extremes and polarities and finding greater purpose through self-spiritual development.
Credits to: http://scorpios.tribe.net/thread/98b27bb9-ba00-4320-8a74-ed25a692477b