Native American Wisdom

[magonia]

"....From the Star and the Sun and the Moon should man learn"

Eagle Chief (Letakots Lesa)

"..the voice of the great spirit is heard in the twittering of the birds, the rippling of the mighty waters, and the sweet breathing of flowers. If this is paganism, then at present, at least, I am a pagan."

Gertrude Simmons Bonnin (Dakota Sioux)


"There is no death, only change of worlds"

Seattle (seatlh)

Suqamish chief

[makwaiskwew]

Thanks Magonia


A gift for you
www.youngwarriors.net/static/pdf/resources/sacred_teachings/the_tribal_laws_children.pdf

I don,t know who posted this online but it was actually Kitpou not Gitpou.
I am a holder of the full set of laws and would be happy to share them with you if you wish...xxoo

Not going to try embedding that. Sometimes it works for me and sometimes it does not...shrugs....lol...Guess I,ll just stick with my normal old way.

[magonia]

[makwaiskwew]

Never sureender...lol

[magonia]

You can delete the mistake if you wish there is a delete button top right hand corner.

[makwaiskwew]

A Cree Legend

There would come a time when the Earth would be ravaged of it's resources, the sea blackened, the streams poisoned, the deer dropping dead in their tracks.

Just before it was too late, the Indian would regain his spirit and teach the white man reverence for the Earth, banding together with him to become Warriors of the Rainbow.

There was an old lady, from the Cree tribe, named "Eyes of Fire", who prophesied that one day, because of the white mans' or Yo-ne-gis' greed, there would come a time, when the fish would die in the streams, the birds would fall from the air, the waters would be blackened, and the trees would no longer be, mankind as we would know it would all but cease to exist.

There would come a time when the "keepers of the legend, stories, culture rituals, and myths, and all the Ancient Tribal Customs" would be needed to restore us to health. They would be mankind's' key to survival, they were the "Warriors of the Rainbow". There would come a day of awakening when all the peoples of all the tribes would form a New World of Justice, Peace, Freedom and recognition of the Great Spirit.

The "Warriors of the Rainbow" would spread these messages and teach all peoples of the Earth or "Elohi". They would teach them how to live the "Way of the Great Spirit".

They would tell them of how the world today has turned away from the Great Spirit and that is why our Earth is "Sick".

The "Warriors of the Rainbow" would show the peoples that this "Ancient Being" (the Great Spirit), is full of love and understanding, and teach them how to make the Earth (Elohi) beautiful again. These Warriors would give the people principles or rules to follow to make their path right with the world. These principles would be those of the Ancient Tribes. The Warriors of the Rainbow would teach the people of the ancient practices of Unity, Love and Understanding.

They would teach of Harmony among people in all four comers of the Earth.

Like the Ancient Tribes, they would teach the peoples how to pray to the Great Spirit with love that flows like the beautiful mountain stream, and flows along the path to the ocean of life. Once again, they would be able to feel joy in solitude and in councils. They would be free of petty jealousies and love all mankind as their brothers, regardless of color, race or religion. They would feel happiness enter their hearts, and become as one with the entire human race.Their hearts would be pure and radiate warmth, understanding and respect for all mankind, Nature, and the Great Spirit. They would once again fill their minds, hearts, souls, and deeds with the purest of thoughts. They would seek the beauty of the Master of Life - the Great Spirit! They would find strength and beauty in prayer and the solitudes of life.

Their children would once again be able to run free and enjoy the treasures of Nature and Mother Earth. Free from the fears of toxins and destruction, wrought by the Yo-ne-gi and his practices of greed. The rivers would again run clear, the forests be abundant and beautiful, the animals and birds would be replenished. The powers of the plants and animals would again be respected and conservation of all that is beautiful would become a way of life.

The poor, sick and needy would be cared for by their brothers and sisters of the Earth. These practices would again become a part of their daily lives.

The leaders of the people would be chosen in the old way - not by their political party, or who could speak the loudest, boast the most, or by name calling or mud slinging, but by those whose actions spoke the loudest. Those who demonstrated their love, wisdom, and courage and those who showed that they could and did work for the good of all, would be chosen as the leaders or Chiefs.

They would be chosen by their "quality" and not the amount of money they had obtained. Like the thoughtful and devoted "Ancient Chiefs", they would understand the people with love, and see that their young were educated with the love and wisdom of their surroundings. They would show them that miracles can be accomplished to heal this world of its ills, and restore it to health and beauty.

The tasks of these "Warriors of the Rainbow" are many and great. There will be terrifying mountains of ignorance to conquer and they shall find prejudice and hatred. They must be dedicated, unwavering in their strength, and strong of heart. They will find willing hearts and minds that will follow them on this road of returning "Mother Earth" to beauty and plenty - once more.

The day will come, it is not far away. The day that we shall see how we owe our very existence to the people of all tribes that have maintained their culture and heritage. Those that have kept the rituals, stories, legends, and myths alive. It will be with this knowledge, the knowledge that they have preserved, that we shall once again return to "harmony" with Nature, Mother Earth, and mankind. It will be with this knowledge that we shall find our "Key to our Survival".

This is the story of the "Warriors of the Rainbow" and this is my reason for protecting the culture, heritage, and knowledge of my ancestors. I know that the day "Eyes of Fire" spoke of - will come! I want my children and grandchildren to be prepared to accept this task. The task of being one of the........ "Warriors of the Rainbow."



damescribe.hubpages.com/hub/M...of-the-Rainbow

[makwaiskwew]

January - Spirit Moon
The first moon of Creation is Spirit Moon, and is
manifested through the Northern Lights. It is a time
to honour the silence and realize our place within all
of Great Mystery’s creatures.

February - Bear Moon
The second moon of Creation is Bear Moon, when
we honour the vision quest that it began in the fall.
During this time, we discover how to see beyond
reality and to communicate through energy rather
than sound.

March - Sugar Moon
The third moon of Creation is Sugar Moon. As the
maple sap begins to run, we learn of one of the main
medicines given to the Anishnabe which balances
our blood, and heals us. During this time, we are
encouraged to balance our lives as we would our
blood sugar levels, by using Divine Law.

April - Sucker Moon
The fourth moon of Creation is Sucker Moon, when
sucker goes to the Spirit World in order to receive
cleansing techniques for this world. When it returns
to this realm, it purifies a path for the Spirits and
cleanses all our water beings. During this time we
can learn to become healed healers.

May - Flower Moon
The fifth moon of Creation is Flower Moon, where all
plants display their Spirit sides for all the world to see. This life giving energy is one the most powerful
healing medicines on Mother Earth. During this
moon we are encouraged to explore our Spiritual essenses.


June- Strawberry Moon
The sixth moon of Creation is Strawberry Moon. The
medicine of the strawberry is reconciliation. It was
during this moon cycle that communities usually held
their annual feasts, welcoming everyone home,
regardless of their differences over the past year,
letting go of judgment and/or self-righteousness.




July - Raspberry Moon
The seventh moon of Creation is Raspberry Moon,
when great changes begin. By learning gentleness
and kindness, we may pass through the thorns of its
bush and harvest its fruit, knowledge that will help in raising our families.


August - Thimbleberry Moon
The eighth moon of Creation is the Thimbleberry
Moon, when we honour the Thimbleberry which
produces an abundance of fruit once every three
years. It was one of the first plants put on Mother
Earth, and its purpose is to protect the Sacred Circle
of Life by allowing us to recognize and understand the teachings that come from the Spirit World.

September - Corn Moon
The ninth moon of Creation is the Corn Moon, during
which time we learn about the cycle of life. Each cob
of corn has thirteen rows of multicoloured seeds
which represent all the spirits waiting to begin their
Earth Walk. These will be the future generations for whom we must prepare.

October - Falling Leaves Moon
The tenth moon of Creation is the Falling Leaves
Moon, a time when Mother Earth is honoured with
the grandest of colours. As all of Creation makes
their offerings to her, we become aware of all the
miracles of Creation before us and our spiritual energies are once again awakened.

November - Freezing Moon
The eleventh moon of Creation is the Freezing Moon,a time when the Star Nation is closest to us. As
every creature being prepares for the coming fasting
grounds, we are reminded to prepare ourselves for
our spiritual path by learning the sacred teachings and songs that will sustain us.

December - Little Spirit Moon
The twelfth moon of Creation is the Little Spirit Moon,
a time of healing. By receiving both vision of the
spirits and good health, we may walk the Red Road
with purest intentions, and we can share this most
positive energy with our families and friends for the good of all.

Blue Moon Big Spirit Moon
The thirteenth moon of Creation is Big Spirit Moon.
Its purpose is to purify us, and to heal all of Creation,
a process which may take a three month long
spiritual journey. During this time, we receive
instructions on the healing powers of the universe and transform into our own vision of the truth.

www.kanawayhitowin.ca/index.p...d=31&Itemid=44



xxoo

[soundsleeper]

Native American Moon Signs and Meanings


January : Wolf Moon Sign



If you were born under the January Wolf Moon, you very likely had (maybe still have) many challenges to face in your life. This makes you uniquely skilled to tackle most difficulties with a cold exterior. Your accustomed to hard work and moving diligently through obstacles. People see you as a lone wolf, and this is true in the fact you would rather work alone. The truth is you have a very close niche of people (your pack) whom you feel fierce love for (although you may not openly show your affection). Your life lesson is about faith, and letting more than only hard work move you through life.


February : Snow Moon Sign



Much like your brothers and sisters of the Wolf Moon tribe, you are no stranger to hard work. Many of you had incredibly challenging childhoods, and have overcome insurmountable odds. These circumstances can make you see the world as a harsh place, sometimes you may even be critical or jaded about people and the world. This does not make you blind to beauty, however and you appreciate physical beauty - particularly in nature. Flowers, trees, animals will all sing sweetly to you and carry you to other worlds where you can escape. Your life lesson is about escaping into these natural worlds more often & letting go of the cold hard facts of reality.


March : Crow Moon Sign



If you were born in March, your Native American moon sign indicates you are an expansive communicator. Your skill to convey yourself and your ideas comes from your ability to be extremely flexible and adaptable. You were born in a time of tempestuous transition. This gives you a unique alacrity, a moveable mind. This specialized mental condition allows you to communicate with other realms of life - you will be particularly drawn to fire animals and birds because these creatures are fast-thinkers like you. You are the midwives and overseers of great change. Your life lesson is about helping yourself and others through transition.


April : Seed Moon Sign



You are known as the Seed Moon if you are born in April because you represent the promise of new growth. You are a league of people who are determined to be seen and heard in your own special way. You have likely seen a great deal of struggle in your childhood, and as you grow into maturity you become adamant about establishing yourself righteously within the community. You have a need to feel deep connections with others, to root yourself within the tribe. Your integrity and honesty is immense and you cannot tolerate injustice. Your sign indicates you are full of potential. That means you will uncover special gifts and aspects about yourself all throughout your life - even in your elderly years. Your life lesson is about gaining perspectives from other viewpoints (not just your own).


May : Flower Moon Sign



Although you've had your fair share of struggle, yours is a charmed sign as you tend to be fairly lucky in life. You have a knack for avoiding hardship. You are gifted with a friendly disposition, it seems you can get along well with almost everyone. Many of you will be natural beauties, and your physical appearance will win you many suitors. Even if you hide your physical beauty away from the world, people will still be attracted to you because you radiate loveliness that's really irresistible. You are very generous, and love to share your bounty with others. Flower Moon signs sometimes find it easier to go along with the crowd. Your life lesson is about following your own light - listening to your own inner voice.


June : Strawberry Moon



You have so many ideas and dreams you have a hard time keeping track. Within you there is a wealth of genius pertaining to enterprise. Within the tribe, people come to you for your insight and advice because they know you are ripe with perspective. Although, your opinions might not be the most objective. You know this about yourself however, and have a keen ability to manipulate situations because you can see the inner workings and outer workings of a scenario at the same time. You love to nurture those around you and are particularly doting to family members - especially your children and/or domestic pets. Your life lesson is about channeling your vast understandings into a specific direction that serves your community.


July : Thunder Moon Signs



You have a bright disposition and easily uplift others just by being in their presence. Your sunny outward personality is a paradox because you also have a tremendous depth. Most people don't realize this about you. You keep your inner depth concealed, it rumbles below your surface. This duality causes you to be highly intuitive. That you know what people will do next is very matter-of-fact to you. Indeed, you often act on future events that have not taken place yet. Likewise, you tend to act on future behaviors of other people too. Knowing things can make you extremely moody, and people often cannot understand a sudden dark shift in your demeanor. Your life lesson is about separating your intuitive knowing from common reality - identifying the difference between inner knowing and outer (real-time) experience.


August : Sturgeon Moon



Although you may have had to endure hardships in your life, you know intrinsically what it feels like to thrive. You have an expansive nature that magnetizes the very best the earth can offer. This makes it quite easy for you to attract the ways and means in your life to succeed in most endeavors. It's uncanny how resources come together to suit your purposes. Sometimes you take this for granted. But, most of you honor the resources at your fingertips. In fact, you can be extremely protective of your friendships, families and provisions of the earth. If you feel these areas are threatened you can be vicious in guarding them. Although you are extremely generous, you can be self-focused. Your life lesson is about seeing the world from other people's eyes (point-of-view).


September : Harvest Moon



As your moon sign suggests, you have remarkable gifts for gathering people and energies together at optimal times. You have a knack for making outstanding connections. People of the tribe will come to you for matchmaking because you know which people will marry best with each other. You can look out into the world and instantly see what partnerships/relationships will work. You are also the information gatherer and tacitly in charge of disseminating information. You are the keeper of wisdom, and also responsible for doling out advice in an honorable way. You have an inherent balance with an superior sense of right and wrong. Your amazing gifts can make you an elitist. Your life lesson is about maintaining humility.


October : Hunters Moon



Your sense of timing is impeccable. Moreover, your sense of knowing through extrasensory perception is uncanny. You have a keen awareness about yourself and your environment. This unnerves a lot of people, and many within your tribe fear you because of your powerful knowing. Consequently, you often find yourself in solitude - although you always long for a partner who understands you. In fact, you spend much of your time seeking partnership and this has made you adept at the "social dance." You know when to withdraw and when to reveal yourself. You have many layers of personality and you can pull these out to suit your needs at will. Your life lesson is about self- acceptance as well as accepting others for who they are (and accepting how they feel about you too).


November : Beaver Moon



Much like your Crow Moon brothers and sisters, you too were born into a time of transition. You are uniquely poised to act on new trends. You will also be a trend-setter yourself. There is also a sense of urgency about you, it is as if you are always preparing for the next step in your evolution. You are also eager to help others move to the next level on their path too. So much so, the people of your tribe will ask for your help with transitions. You are a facilitator and love to create structure from chaos. You can easily get caught up in all the excitement of transition, and you can also get lost in other people's drama. This blocks your ability to help and heal yourself and others. Your life lesson is about not getting lost in transition.


December : Cold Moon Signs



As your moon sign name implies, you tend to have a cold exterior - but the fact is you actually have a glowing warmth within you that when nurtured and encouraged, will radiate outwards. In fact, this inner warmth of yours has the power to fuel the dreams of an entire tribe if you allow it. You, along with many of your winter moon sign family members have faced adverse conditions. But adversity is never your enemy, and you tend to miraculously overcome insurmountable odds with a casualness that boggles onlookers. You have a keen intellect with the ability to create effective strategies from the slightest bits of information. People in the tribe look to you as a person of great strength and stability. Your life lesson is about relying and trusting others (as you tend to rely mostly on yourself).

www.whats-your-sign.com/native-american-moon-signs.html

[soundsleeper]

Discover Your Birth Animal Totem



Most people know the sign of the Zodiac that they were born under. That is your Sun sign. Do you know the animal totem or birth totem associated with your birth or your Moon Sign?

There are a set of native totem animals for each of the 12 moons of a year and we carry them with us throughout our lives.

We are given totems by Mother Earth according to which of the Moons we were born under. Totems of distinct animals, plants, minerals, colors, elements (fire, water, air, earth), and wind directions. We share our basic dispositions with the basic characteristics of these totems. We can learn everything about ourselves by studying these birth month animals.

Follow me as I explain the twelve animal totems and their meanings associated with each Moon of the year from Native American beliefs.



Goose or Snow Goose Birth Totem
December 22 to January 19
Moon: December 22 - Jan 19 Earth Renewal
Animal: Goose or Snow Goose
Plant: Birch Tree or Bramble
Mineral: Quartz or Peridot
Color: White
Spirit Keeper: Waboose (White Buffalo)
Power Direction: North
Element: Earth
Elemental Clan: Turtle

Determination and Resourcefulness
Persevering, determined, and ambitious to a fault, the Goose Totem sets goals for accomplishment, and always obtains them. The Goose is determined to succeed at all costs not for the approval of others, but Goose Totem competes with their own internal foe. Driven is Goose Totem's dominating personality trait. If you want something done, give it to the Goose!


Otter Birth Totem
January 20 to February 18
Moon: January 20 - February 18 Rest & Cleansing
Animal: Otter
Plant: Quaking Aspen or Fern
Mineral: Silver or Turquoise
Color: Silver
Spirit Keeper: Waboose (White Buffalo)
Power Direction: North
Element: Air
Elemental Clan: Butterfly

Joy - Primal Feminine Energy
Otters awaken curiosity. They remind us that everything is interesting if we look at it from the right angle. Birth Totem Otter is in a continual search of information, ideas and concepts. However, in their enthusiasm to glean as much knowledge as quickly as possible, there may be a tendency to skim the surface, rather than explore the deeper waters that would result in truer understanding.

A little eccentric and unconventional, the Birth Totem Otter is a hard one to figure sometimes. The Otter Totem's methods aren't the first ones chosen to get the job done. This is a big mistake on the part of others because although unconventional, the Otter's methods are usually quite effective! The Otter Totem may have an unusual way of looking at things, but is equipped with a brilliant imagination and intelligence.

Wolf Birth Totem
February 19 to March 20
Moon: February 19 - March 20 Big Winds
Animal: Wolf
Plant: Plantain
Mineral: Turquoise or Jade
Color: Blue-Green
Spirit Keeper: Waboose (White Buffalo)
Power Direction: North
Element: Water
Elemental Clan: Frog

Teacher - Pathfinder
Wolf is the pioneer, the forerunner of new ideas, to teach and share with others what they have learned. Wolves have an enormous sense of family as well as a strong individualistic urge. Baying at moon is wolf's desire to connect with new ideas just below the surface of consciousness, for the moon is a symbol for psychic energy.


Red Hawk or Falcon Birth Totem
March 21 to April 19
Moon: March 21 - April 19 Budding Trees or Awakening
Animal: Red Hawk or Falcon
Plant: Dandelion
Mineral: Fire Opal
Color: Yellow or Yellow-Green
Spirit Keeper: Wabun (Golden Eagle)
Power Direction: East
Element: Fire
Elemental Clan: Thunderbird or Hawk

Mental Speed - Agility - Focus
A natural born leader, those with a Falcon Totem are always looked upon for clear judgment in sticky situations. Falcon never wastes time; they strike while the iron is hot, and take action in what must be done. Falcon is honored and respected for its keen eyesight, speed of flight, and precision of movement.


Beaver Birth Totem
April 20 to May 20
Moon: April 20 - May 20
Animal: Beaver
Plant: Wild Clover
Mineral: Jasper - Bloodstone
Color: Blue or Yellow
Spirit Keeper: Wabun (Golden Eagle)
Power Direction: East
Element: Earth
Elemental Clan: Turtle

Dream Builder
Beaver is the builder of the Animal Kingdom, and has a strong sense of family and home. In building its home, you will find several entrances and exits.

Beaver never limits itself to one escape route. Beaver's lesson for us is: 'not to paint ourselves in a corner'. In addition, Beaver is well equipped to protect its creation.

Deer Birth Totem
May 21 to June 20
Moon: May 21 - June 20 Complanting or Flower
Animal: Deer
Plant: Yarrow
Mineral: Moss Agate
Color: White and green
Spirit Keeper: Wabun (Golden Eagle)
Power Direction: North
Element: Air
Elemental Clan: Butterfly

Gentleness - Innocence
The Deer is lively, quick-witted and always aware of her surroundings. Ever alert for the subtlest of movements and the slightest sounds that warn her of impending danger. Yet, her own flightiness often leads her straight into the sights of the hunter.


Woodpecker Birth Totem
June 21 to July 21/22
Moon: June 21 - July 21/22 Strong Sun
Animal: Woodpecker
Plant: Wild Rose
Mineral: Carnelian Agate
Color: pink or rose
Spirit Keeper: Shawnodese (Coyote)
Power Direction: South
Element: Water
Elemental Clan: Frog

Sensitive - Emotional - Protective
Birth Totem Woodpecker is the most nurturing of the animal symbols, the consummate listener, totally empathic and understanding. The primary focus for Woodpecker is to be completely devoted to another, even at the expense of the self. When Woodpecker bores into a tree in search of insects for food, she uses her beak and head to drum out the holes and uncover her meal. This symbolizes to us, to gain emotional perspective, to learn detachment, and to use our head instead of recklessly following our heart.


Salmon or Sturgeon Birth Totem
July 22/23 to Aug 21/22
Moon: July 22/23 - Aug 21/22 Ripe Berries or Ripening
Animal: Salmon or Sturgeion
Plant: Raspberry
Mineral: Garnet
Color: Red
Spirit Keeper: Shawnodese (Coyote)
Power Direction: South
Element: Fire
Elemental Clan: Thunderbird or Hawk

Wisdom - Inner Knowing
Salmon, despite strong river currents, will always return to the place of its creation. Its determination is driven by the wisdom of instinct and inner-knowing, which yields a sense of purpose that cannot be stopped by outside forces. Salmon tells us to trust our gut feelings and inner-knowing.

Salmon teaches us to see every bend in the river as a new adventure, with a lesson we need to learn to grow, even when the flow of life seems to push us back, we can tap the hidden resources of our human spirit.


Brown Bear Birth Totem
August 22/23 to September 21/22
Moon: August 22/23 - September 21/22 Harvest
Animal: Brown Bear
Plant: Violets
Mineral: Amethyst
Color: Purple
Spirit Keeper: Shawnodese (Coyote)
Power Direction: South
Element: Earth
Elemental Clan: Turtle

Keeper of Unconscious Knowledge
Bear seeks honey, or the sweetness of truth, inside the hollow of an old tree, and enters the cave, or womb, to hibernate, and to digest the year's experiences. Bear seeks answers while hibernating, or dreaming, and then is reborn in the spring. Bear teaches us that to accomplish the goals and dreams we carry enter the silence within. If we choose to believe that there are many questions to life, we must also believe that the answers to these questions resides within us.

Raven or Crow Birth Totem
September 22/23 to October 22/23
Moon: September 22/23 - October 22/23 Ducks Fly or Falling Leaves
Animal: Raven or Crow
Plant: Mullein
Mineral: Jasper
Color: Brown or Blue
Spirit Keeper: Mudjekeewis (Grizzly Bear)
Power Direction: West
Element: Air
Elemental Clan: Butterfly

Keeper of Sacred Law
Crow knows the Unknowable Mysteries of Creation and is Keeper of All Sacred Law. This Totem signifies first-hand knowledge of a higher order of right and wrong than that indicated by Human Law. Crow see the physical and spiritual world, ( as humanity interprets them ) are an illusion and can simultaneously see the past, present, and future. Crow merges the light and darkness, seeing both inner and outer reality.

Snake Birth Totem
October 23/24 to November 21/22
Moon: October 23/24 - November 21/22 Freeze Up or Frost
Animal: Snake
Plant: Thistle
Mineral: Copper
Color: Orange or Violet
Spirit Keeper: Mudjekeewis (Grizzly Bear)
Power Direction: West
Element: Water
Elemental Clan: Frog

Wisdom - Healing - Symbol of Eternity
The shedding of Snake's skin symbolizes the transformation of the life-death-rebirth cycle. They are compelled toward evolution and transformation, driven to discard the past and emerge with new 'flesh'. It is the energy of wholeness, cosmic consciousness and the ability to experience anything willingly and without resistance. It is the knowledge that all things are equal in creation, and that even things experienced as 'poison' can be integrated and transmuted with the proper state of mind.

Owl Birth Totem
November 22/23 to December 21
Moon: November 22/23 - December 21 Long Snows
Animal: Owl
Plant: Black Spruce
Mineral: Obsidian
Color: Black or Gold
Spirit Keeper: Mudjekeewis (Grizzly Bear)
Power Direction: West
Element: Fire
Elemental Clan: Thunderbird or Hawk

Magic and Wisdom
Owl hunts his prey at night. Not only can Owl see in the dark, it can also accurately locate and recognize any sound. This gives it a great advantage when seeking food. Owl's feathers are silent. You cannot hear an owl when it flies, but its prey definitely knows when it strikes! Owl is a symbol for wisdom, because Owl can see what others cannot. No one can deceive the Owl about what they are doing, no matter how hard they try to disguise or hide it from the Owl.

www.squidoo.com/birth-animal-totem

[soundsleeper]

Butterfly Maiden



“Butterfly Maiden sees herself in the world.

She is aware of herself as a microcosm within the macrocosm.

She seeks her truth adorned with the vibrant colors of Gaia,

sharing her beauty with no conceit as she joyfully dances through the day.”

www.fantasy-goddess-art.com



Keywords: Hope, Taking Action, Self-transformation, Transmutation (to change into a higher form), Metamorphosis, Shape-shifter, Light, Joy, Renewal, Re-birth, Beauty, Sexuality, Understanding Change, Motion, Newness, Graceful, Emerging, Healer, Intelligent, Creative, Exotic, Visionary, Bridging, Magical, Dreaming, Spirit Guide, Communication with the dead…

Colors: All bright colors ~ Butterfly maiden reminds us to work with all of our Chakras for balance, healing, and clarity. Pay attention to the colors that you are drawn to as they may be exactly what you need.

Elements & Symbols: Butterflies, Soul, Sun, Children, Dreams, Dance of Joy, Abundance, A gift from spirit, Flight, Nature spirits, Lightness, Rain water, Rainbows, Brightly colored flowers, Green leaves, Spring, Mating, Sexuality, Conjugal Bliss, Wings, Flight, Doorway to the Unseen Realms, Butterflies are the first to leave a dying eco system.

In cultures around the world the butterfly is associated as follows:

Christianity ~ the soul

Celtic ~ nature spirits

China ~ conjugal bliss and joy

Shadow work: Earth, Darkness, Introspection, Rest, Rejuvenation, Cocooning, Depression, Grief, Death, Dying, Pain, Procrastination, Indecision, Abyss, Sexual Healing and Transformation, Regeneration, Evolution, Connecting to Goddess-spirit within


History and Background

Butterfly Maiden’s story is woven intricately within the myths of the North American Peoples. Many tribes hold the butterfly as a special symbol. Sacred artists of the Hopi and Zuni people carved Kachinas that captured butterfly maiden’s spirit to share with their people. Selected Kachina men danced the sacred Butterfly dance and presented the carved Kachina to the women and children of the tribe to share the butterfly spirit. The Hopi believed the spirit of the butterfly taught the people about renewal, joy, abundance, fertility and springtime. Unmarried girls wore their hair in a special style in the shape of a butterfly.

The Navaho people also held the butterfly as sacred and have similar myths and symbolism around the butterfly. The Nez Pierce peoples said that their children could call butterflies to them with their joy reminding the adults to not take things too seriously. The Blackfoot tribe painted a symbol similar to the maltese cross on their dwellings representing the butterfly. They believed that the butterfly brought sleep and dreams. Blackfoot mothers would tie a piece of buckskin embroidered with a cross to represent the butterfly in their child’s hair to bring sleep and pleasant dreams.

To some of the South American people the butterfly and moth represent balance and sexuality. Many of us have gone through painful growth and change and sometimes that involves coming to terms with our own sexuality. Butterfly Maiden can help those going through these deeply personal turmoil’s.

The Aztec people believe that the butterfly is a departed loved one come to bring a message of eternal life and happiness.



The Butterfly Story

By Johnny Moses

www.migrations.com/storytelling.html

A long time ago! There was an old lady and her granddaughter, Caterpillar Lady. She was told, "What is the matter with you, why don't you go and look for a man who will become your husband?!" So she crawled away--looking for a husband.
She asked, "Grandmother, would you please give me that 'marriage medicine' that is called 'love potion'?" Grandmother made it and gave it to her granddaughter with proper instructions for its use. <>

Butterfly maiden saw a possible candidate--threw the love powder over him--he fell in love with her--she kissed him--he died! "Grandmother, I need another love potion." Grandmother made it.

Butterfly maiden crawled on in her search for a husband--saw a likely fellow, threw her love medicine over him--he fell in love with her--she kissed him--he died!

Butterfly maiden found four possible husband candidates, threw her potion, patiently made by Grandmother; she threw the powder over each man, kissed him and he died.

She was widowed four times and as she grieved, her sorrow and grief covered her with many layers of grief. She climbed high into the mountains, stood there and cried out her sorrow.

The compassionate Creator heard and saw her problem.

Creator touched her--suddenly the layers and layers of grief peeled away and out of this cocoon emerged the most beautiful of creatures we now call butterfly.


www.goddessschool.com/projects/Lavanee/fpl2bw.html

[soundsleeper]

THE FOUR ELEMENTAL CLANS

www.angelfire.com/ok/bobbiesues/pg8mwCLANS.html

[makwaiskwew]

I Am There
by Hanoochi

I am the breeze that kisses your cheek.
I am the sun that warms your face.

When you look at the purple evening sky, it is me.
When you see a majestic mountain, it is me.

When the birds sweetly sing, it is my voice.
When the water gently laps against the shore, it is my heartbeat.

I am the green grass against your feet.
I am the refreshing shade of summer.

In the stars, you see my eyes.
In the blue sky, you see my body.

Feel the air that surrounds you, I am there.
Feel the love in your heart, I am there.

[makwaiskwew]

Prophecy of the Seven Fires
according to The Mishomis Book by Edward Benton Banai

Seven prophets appeared to the people. The First Prophet told the people that in the time of the First Fire they would leave their homes by the sea and follow the sign of the megis. They were to journey west into strange lands in search of a island in the shape of a turtle. This island will be linked to the purification of the earth. Such an island was to be found at the beginning and at the end of their journey. Along the way they would find a river connecting two large sweet water seas. This river would be narrow and deep as though a knife had cut through the land. They would stop seven times to create villages but they would know that their journey was complete when they found food growing on the water. If they did not leave, there would be much suffering and they would be destroyed. And they would be pursued and attacked by other nations along the way so they must be strong and ready to defend themselves.

The Second Prophet told them they could recognize the Second Fire because while they were camped by a sweet water sea they would lose their direction and that the dreams of a little boy would point the way back to the true path, the stepping stones to their future.

The Third Prophet said that in the Third Fire the Anishinabe would find the path to the lands prepared for them and they would continue their journey west to the place where food grows upon the water.The Fourth Prophet was two who came as one. The first told them to expect a race of people who had light skin. The future of the Anishinabeg would be known by the face the light-skinned people would wear. If they come in brotherhood there would be a time of wonderful change. New knowledge would be joined with the old knowledge and the two peoples would join to make a mighty nation. Two other nations would join to make four and they would become the mightiest nation of all. If they brought only their knowledge and their good-will they would be like brothers.

The second being of the Fourth Prophet warned the light-skinned race might wear the face of death that would almost look the same as the face of brotherhood. "If they come carrying a weapon and if they seem to be suffering, beware. Behind this face is greed. You shall recognize the face of death if the rivers are poisoned and the fish are unfit to eat."

The Fifth Prophet said that in the time of the Fifth Fire there will be a struggle between the way of the mind of the light-skinned people and the natural path of spirit of the many nations of natural people. "As this fire loses its heat there will come among the people those who promise great joy and salvation. If the people accept this promise and abandon the old ways, the struggle will continue for many generations. This promise is false and it will nearly destroy those who accept it."

The Sixth Prophet told them that in the time of Sixth Fire it would be clear that the promise accepted during the Fifth Fire was false. "Those who were deceived by this promise will take their children away from the teachings of the elders. The elders will lose their purpose in life and many will become sick and die. Many people will be out of balance and the cup of life will become the cup of grief."The Seventh Prophet was younger than the others who had come and there was a glowing light from his eyes. He said that there would come a time when the waters had been so poisoned that the animals and plants that lived there would fall sick and begin to die. Much of the forests and prairies would be gone so the air would begin to lose the power of life.* The way of the mind brought to the red, black, and yellow nation by the white nation would bring danger to the whole earth. In this time there will arise Osh-ki-bi-ma-di-zeeg, a new people who will emerge from the clouds of illusion. They will retrace their steps to find the treasures that had been left by the trail. The stories that had been lost will be returned to them. They will remember the Original Instructions and find strength in the way of the circle. Their search will take them to the elders and the new people will ask for guidance. But many of the elders will have walked the Path of the Souls to the Star Web. Many elders will have forgotten their wisdom and they will not be able to help. Some of the elders will point in the wrong direction and others will remain silent because of their fear. Some of the elders will be silent because no one has asked them for their wisdom.

If the New People will find trust in the way of all things, in the circle, they will no longer need the selfish voice of the ego and they can begin to trust their inner voice. Wisdom will be once again be found in dreams of the night and of the day. The sacred fire will once again be lit. The Light-skinned People will be given a choice between two paths. If they choose the right path the Seventh Fire will light the Eighth Fire and final fire of brotherhood and sisterhood. If they choose the wrong path, remaining on the path of the mind, then the destruction they brought with them will come back to destroy them. The people of the earth will experience much suffering and death.

[makwaiskwew]

While millions around the world will flock to view the annular solar eclipse on Sunday at sunset, many who are smack in the middle of its shadowy path will avert their eyes. Eclipses are a bad omen in much of Indian country, and the indigenous world in general, from the Navajo to the Maya.

It’s not easy to obtain information about astronomy from the Navajo this time of year; such things belong to storytelling season, during the winter months, said Rudy Begay, a Navajo cultural resource specialist consulting with various federal programs.

“The moon and the sun are sacred the way they were created, and you are not supposed to watch the moon or look at, stare at it for a long time,” he told Indian Country Today Media Network. “It affects your mind and your body. Especially for a woman that’s carrying a baby. Because when there is an eclipse either lunar or solar, this is a sacred time where the sun, the moon and the earth is kind of like in an intimate position when they line up, so it’s such a sacred thing that’s happening, you don’t look at those things that are happening out in the sky.”

If a pregnant woman sees an eclipse of any kind, be it solar or lunar, it might “affect the mind of the woman or also in the future it will affect the health of the baby,” Begay said, and a special ceremony must be conducted to rid them of the influence.

During an eclipse, “every man, woman and child—they have to show reverence, and they don’t eat, they don’t drink water, they just go into the house until it passes,” Begay said. “And then they show respect for the moon and the sun.”

The Maya too, found eclipses to be disturbing. Although many representations of eclipses appear in Mayan art, such events were generally understood to portend bad tidings.

“Solar eclipses, known as chi’ ibal kin, or ‘to eat the sun,’ were a particular cause for distress among the Maya people,” the website Starteach.com notes. Mayan priests went to great lengths to predict eclipses and calculate all manner of astronomical phenomena.

Navajo ethnobotanist Arnold Clifford went a bit deeper, still without telling stories.

“The stars are not just there,” he said. “There’s a purpose for them out there. They’re very powerful. It’s a place of death out there. It’s a place we don’t really want to talk about, out there. It’s a place that we’re supposed to avoid. It’s a place reserved for the holy people, for specific types of holy people.”

The sun shines daily but a toll must be paid, he said.

“Each day when the sun shines for us there are people that die for it. That’s a cost we pay to the deity to keep that thing in motion,” Clifford said. On a solar eclipse day, the sun’s power weakens. When that happens, calamity is sure to follow.

Sometimes he has a bad day,” Clifford said of the sun. “When he turns, he sends evil, thinks evil thoughts. That sun will turn black. When this turns black, it brings calamity to the earth.”

Therefore during an eclipse the ancient Navajo “would stop all activity,” Clifford said. “They’d stop the ceremonies. They didn’t eat, they didn’t drink water, they stayed inside, they didn’t go outside. They avoided all that darkness, that evil influence that was coming down on them.”

Much of that still holds true today, said Melba Martin, an educator and amateur archeoastronomer who serves as a liaison for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory on the Navajo reservation.

“The eclipse coming up on May 20 occurs right above one of our schools and right through one of our very sacred areas – several sacred areas,” she said. “Our national park is within a mile of this. They are refusing to let people even in with telescopes, outsiders. Excellent viewing opportunity, but they’re refusing.”

However, she said, she has been asked to do a presentation about the eclipse 60 miles away, at Navajo National Monument.

“I will do a presentation inside, and that will be for the people who do not want to go outside but do want to learn about the sun and the moon from a science perspective and some culture,” she said. “The people who can—the non-Navajo, and there are some Navajo who do not take advice and will go out there and view eclipses—we’ll be giving them the science opportunity outside the monument.”

Canyon de Chelly, however, is not doing anything of the kind, she said.

Luckily the eclipse falls on a Sunday.

“It’s coming right over our junior high school as a matter of fact,” and just a few hundred yards from a sacred site, Martin said. ”But again, the park has decided no. We’re not going to allow telescopes in the park.
indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2012/05/19/avert-your-eyes-eclipse-viewing-taboo-in-navajo-and-other-cultures-113739