SYBOLISM OF THE ANIMALS

Native Americans believe that all animals have lessons to teach and have healing or inspirational power.  When they hold or carry a certain fetish, or meditate on it's meaning, they believed they draw the special energy of the animal into themselves.

Choose which animal energies are right for you, simply take a deep breath, still yourself and ask your inner being.  You will have a knowing.

Here is a quick list of the animals, their energy, and what they will be able to bring into your life.

ALLIGATOR - Survival, Stealth

ANT - Patience

ANTELOPE - Action, Speed, Grace, Rapid Advancement

ARMADILLO - Boundaries

BADGER - Aggressiveness

BAT - Rebirth

BEAR - Introspection, Strength, Self-Knowledge

BEAVER - Building, Shaping, Structure

BUFFALO - Prayer, Abundance, Healing, Good Fortune

BUTTERFLY - Transformation, Balance, Grace

CARIBOU - Travel, Mobility

COUGAR - Balance, Majesty

COYOTE - Humor, Trickiness, Reversal of Fortune

CRANE - Balance, Majesty

CROW - Council, Wisdom, Resourcefulness, Law

DEER - Gentleness, Sensitivity, Peace

DOG - Loyalty

DOLPHIN - Joy, Harmony, Connection with Self

DRAGONFLY - Skill, Refinement, Relentlessness

EAGLE - Potency, Healing Power, Illumination, Spirit

ELK - Stamina, Pride, Power, Majesty

FOX - Camouflage, Cleverness, Subtlety, Discretion

FROG - Cleansing, Peace, Emotional Healing

GOAT - Tenacity, Diligence

GOOSE - Safe Return, Love of Home

HAWK - Awareness, Truth

HEDGEGOG - Self-preservation

HORSE - Freedom, Power, Safe Movement

HUMMINGBIRD - Beauty, Wonder, Agility, Joy

LIZARD - Dreaming, Letting Go, Elusiveness

LOON - Communication, Serenity

LYNX - Secrets

MOOSE - Self-esteem, Unpredictability, Spontaneity

MOUNTAIN LION �?Leadership

MOUSE - Scrutiny, Illusion, Charm

OPOSSUM - Diversion

OTTER - Medicine (woman), Joy, Laughter, Lightness

OWL - Wisdom, Vision, Insight

PORCUPINE - Innocence, Humility

QUAIL - Protectiveness, Group Harmony

RABBIT - Conquering Fear, Safety, Innocence

RAVEN - Mystery, Exploration of the Unknown, Magic

SALMON - Trust, Strength, Determination, Persistence

SANDPIPER - Quickness, Foraging, Scavenging

SEAGULL - Carefree Attitude, Versatility, Freedom

SEAL - Contentment

SKUNK - Caution, Warning, Respect, Reputation

SNAIL - Perseverance, Determination

SNAKE - Transmutation, Power, Life Force, Sexual Potency

SPIDER - Web of Life, Interconnectedness, Industrious, Weaving

SQUIRREL - Trust, Thrift, Gathering

SWAN - Grace, Elegance, Nurturing Together, Relationship, Oneness

TURKEY - Give-Away

TURTLE - Mother Earth, Love & Protection, Healing & Knowledge

WHALE - Record Keeper, Creativity & Intuition

WEASEL - Stealth

WOLF - Creativity & Intuition, Teacher

A

ALLIGATOR -- All the reptiles are very primal and connected to the ancient history of our planet.  None more so than Alligator, who teaches of the primal and earthy aspects of life, and of survival.  Among the Seminole Nation of Florida, Alligator is honored as teaching of the importance of honoring one's basic needs (what you really need and what you just want) and connection with the past, achieving goals and honoring one's potential.  Alligator is a sly hunter, powerful and shrewd, and teaches us that we can achieve our needs and dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.

ANT -- Teaches of patience, diligence, dedication, industriousness and balancing the needs of both the greater good and the individual in all one's actions.  Ant is the reminder of the importance of patience and working within the community for the greater good of all.  Ant also counsels neither to be selfish nor so wrapped up in serving the needs of others that you forget yourself.

ANTELOPE -- Antelope teaches of action and movement, both in their positive and detrimental aspects.  His lessons include growth, rashness (and how to overcome it), quickness, the ability to not only cope with change but prosper through it, and foresight.   He teaches how to wait patiently for opportunities until they come, and then move quickly and effectively with purpose to take advantage of them, of when it is better to wait and when it is better to act, and knowing the difference.

ARMADILLO -- His Medicine concerns boundaries and Sacred Space, immunity to hostility and negativity, stubbornness, self-reliance and great protection gained through following Great Mystery's plan for oneself.  Armadillo's armor protects him from all harm (both physical and spiritual), and keeps him safe.  However, he and his children must also learn to open up to others when the time is right, and learn the values of trust and vulnerability.

B

BADGER -- Is aggressive and unrelenting in seeking goals.  Badger teaches of aggressiveness (both when it is needed and when it is inappropriate), self-expression, self-reliance and ferocity.  Badger lives underground among the roots of the great Standing Ones (trees), and knows much of Earth knowledge and secrets underground, including the healing properties of roots and herbs.  Badger is also the greatest storyteller among the Totems, and shares this gift with others (although grudgingly sometimes).  Badger is very gruff, blunt, practical and shrewd.

BAT -- More than any other Totem, Bat exemplifies the Life/Death/Rebirth cycle which can be found everywhere in Nature, and is one of the most basic and important facts of life.  Bat governs the Shaman's Death, the death in an initiate of one's old self and that self's limitations and fears that must die for the new Shamanic self to be born (a process all Shamans undergo during initiation by the Spirits and teachers in this world).  Bat teaches of transition, becoming comfortable with paradox, initiation, facing and overcoming one's fears, not fearing death, adaptability and changing to receive a gift or meet the needs of a situation.

BEAR -- Bear is a very complex Totem that teaches many varied and seemingly contradictory lessons.  Bear is strong, wild, unpredictable, primal and virile, and in many tribes is honored as inspiring warriors with powerful Medicine for use in combat.  But that is only Bear's outer life, and there is much more to this Totem than that, for Bear is also -- through his/her inner life -- a teacher of the value and ways of introspection, inner vision, realizing one's spiritual potential and the lesson of caution vs. carelessness.  Bear is a powerful mentor to many who carry Counselor and Healer Medicines.  This Teacher echoes the deepest and most primal memories of humanity's past (the oldest found evidence of religious worship at the dawn of our species involved honoring cave bears).  Bear enters the Moon Lodge of dreams as he/she hibernates, and thus has (along with all who carry his/her Medicine) the opportunity to engage in introspection and clarification of personal truth, and then to share that clarity with others, allowing them to realize and remember their own truths for themselves.  Bear is also associated with the secrets of healing. Bear people (my own father among them) are often very different from what they seem -- their inner and outer lives are often in very sharp contrast (and conflict, when they are out of balance), and they are very easy to underestimate because of this.

BEAVER -- Beaver is often called the Great Builder of Dreams.  He teaches the value of hard work, the joys of creating something long lasting and useful and the importance of having a purpose in all one's actions, striving for achievement and security.  Beaver's role among the Totems is to create that which will be beneficial to the people, durable and well made.  Beaver people are never without purpose and creativity (except when they lose sight of their purpose, and fall out of balance for a time), and create things of value, whether this is a literal bridge spanning a river or a figurative one of lasting communication between different peoples.

BLUE JAY (who is the Guide of other species of jays as well) -- Blue Jay is called by many the Mistress of Masks.  Hers is a penetrating vision that sees through all masks, illusions and deceptions.  She and her chosen are only very rarely fooled by anyone -- even the Tricksters have a very hard time doing so, and usually avoid her and her children because of this.  She teaches of seeing past the illusions and deceptions of others with clarity and objectivity.  She also counsels of the value of the power of presence in dealing with others in difficult situations, and when it is wise to trust others and when it is foolish to do so.  There has long been treachery and deception in the world, and it is Blue Jay's role to reveal it to the People.  She and her children are very unsettling to most people, as they have a penetrating gaze, are very aggressive and are so very hard to fool.  The flaw she and her children must work through is their tendency to become cynical and suspicious if they're not careful.  Blue Jay is the complete opposite of Raccoon, and their Medicines tend to cancel each other out when they meet.

BOBCAT -- Is very much a loner and teaches of independence, silence and hidden & secret wisdom.  To prowl with Bobcat is to learn the invaluable wisdom of an outsider looking in, as it puts you in a more objective position by standing at a distance and paying attention.  Bobcat has a huge amount in common with Lynx, and they are considered by some to be siblings.

BUFFALO -- Tatanka (as Buffalo is called by the Lakota) is honored by the Sioux and other tribes of the Great Plains as being a source of abundance, grace and the goodwill of the Spirits and the Great Ones.  Tatanka is the harbinger of the Ancient Ways, and teaches the invaluable lessons of prayer, respect, abundance, thankfulness and living by Great Spirit's plan.  The tribes who hunted bison used every part of a buffalo after killing one, wasting nothing, and offered up great thanks for this sacred life-sustaining gift to the People.  It was a powerful spirit called White Buffalo Calf Woman who brought us the sacred chanupa (peace pipe) and knowledge of all the sacred rites of the Sioux Nation.  Buffalo are considered to be intensely holy, and the appearance of a white buffalo (which happened a few years ago when one was born up north and huge amounts of Native people came to witness it) in particular is a sign from the Medicine World of great and wonderful changes ahead.

BUTTERFLY -- Butterfly is very strong among the Navajo, Pueblo and other tribes of the Southwest, and teaches of transformation (as a butterfly transforms dramatically during each stage of its life cycle), peace, mental clarity, beauty and the willingness to change when necessary.  Butterfly is gentle and fragile, but also hardy, for Butterfly's children often travel very long distances and mysteriously avoid storms and other dangers.

C

CARDINAL -- This bold bird of striking red plumage is quite the mystery to me, and I know little of its Medicine beyond this -- Cardinal teaches of self-respect and vitality.  Raven once called Cardinal the Protector of the Innocent, and this makes sense considering how viciously they protect their nests (a lot like Blue Jay).  But that's the limit of my knowledge on this Teacher.  Perhaps others will fill in the blanks on Cardinal's Medicine where I cannot.

CAT -- Cat teaches the lessons of self-love, pride (in its positive and negative aspects), sensuality, self-protection, charisma and learning about one's own personal truth and power.  She is vain and fickle, yet cares deeply for both her animal and human children.  Cat also represents and counsels of the interrelation between dependence and independence, and how one can never be fully either.  We think we know Cat and her children well, and to a degree we do -- we have seen much of their graceful, fickle, independent, mysterious and half-wild ways.  But a veil of mystery surrounds the cats, and they know many secrets of the night that others are not privy to.  Cat people are mysterious, clever, sensual and deeply protective of those they consider family, but they are also catty and self-obsessed.  However, when they are in balance, Cat and her children possess a unique gift -- to look within and see the pure, unbiased true self for all that it is.  If they wish they can inspire this insight in others as well.

COYOTE -- Is the Great Trickster, a scamp and rogue through and through. He is always getting himself into trouble through his own devices and foolishness, but always manages to survive and go on to cause even more trouble!  Coyote is the Sacred Fool who, despite his amazing guile, charm and agility, always ends up having his own tricks backfire on him (indeed, Warner Brothers' Wile E. Coyote is right on target in summing up Coyote Medicine!).  Coyote is contradiction, uncertainty, foolishness, laughter and craziness (of the good sort, of course).  He teaches of the great importance of laughter and humor and warns against taking life too seriously (and nips us in the ass when we do!).  He helps us learn by doing everything backwards or wrong, allowing us to learn from his mistakes as well as our own.  But his antics also help us remember that there's more than one way to go about just about everything, so it's silly and pointless to get bogged down in needless procedure and dogma.  He also teaches of knowing when it's time to break the rules, especially when those rules and laws are unneeded or unfair, and is a master at exploiting any system.  He teaches of the healing Medicine of laughter and how chaos and unexpected situations add a spice to life that keeps it fascinating.  He takes everything to the extreme, and takes his children along for one hell of a wild ride!  Coyote people are always getting into this comical (for us, even if it isn't for them at the time) dilemma or that, but usually come out unscathed -- for Coyote's luck is great (lucky for him)!  Coyotes are irrepressible and never stay down in the dumps for long.  They are mischievous for the sake of mischief, not out of malevolence.  Coyote is very much a Totem of extremes -- equally very wise and very foolish, and he shares both of these gifts with anyone with enough daring to take them.

CROW -- Crow is the Keeper of the Sacred Law and "magistrate" of the Totems.  She (Crow almost always appears as female) is the sister of Raven, and is his counterpart and complete opposite.  Crow counsels of Divine Law (including Great Spirit's plan for each of us), logic (including both when it's useful and when it just gets in the way), destiny, transformation (Crow's most powerful children are known to be shapeshifters), knowledge and justice.  She, more than any other Guide, is associated with justice, and with the fact that everything you do to both others and yourself, both helpful and detrimental, comes back to you in spades.  She teaches not only of the value of the Law (both sacred and mundane), but also how to bend or break the rules when necessary.  Crow people know the true meaning of community and teamwork, and just as crows in the wild live together in close-knit communities that look after one another, Crow people tend to work in groups for the benefit of all involved.

D

DEER -- Deer is one of those Teachers with very pronounced masculine and feminine sides.  As a Deer (female), she teaches of the invaluable and essential lessons of gentleness, unconditional love and surrendering to that love.  The female aspect of Deer is gentle and trusting, sharing her love with all who would accept it and not becoming hurt when that love is rebuffed.  She counsels of the powerful Medicines of faith and trust, and this is evidenced in the loving and peaceful ways of her animal and human children (such as my mother).  In Deer's masculine aspect he is Stag, and teaches of pride (in a beneficial sense), esteem and honor (and in this is similar to Elk).  Stag's Medicine is male Medicine in balance, proud but not arrogant, strong but not unyielding, protective but not patronizing.  He is a protector of the meek and helpless.  I don't really know any more than this, though, so you'll have to go to the source if you want to know the rest.

DOG -- The saying goes Dog is man's best friend, and this is very true.  Dog teaches of the Medicine of loyalty.  Dog is unfailingly loyal to himself, his kind and to humanity, all at the same time.  His Medicine involves dedication, loyalty to oneself ("to thine own self be true"), personal truth (learning to live by it but not force it on others), guardianship of others and learning how to set goals and follow through with them.  Dog's is the Medicine of friendship and loyalty, always thinking of others as well as yourself, and many times putting others ahead of yourself.  Dog is not a selfless martyr, but is a good and true friend who offers eternal loyalty and unconditional love.

DOLPHIN -- The gentle traveler of the waves.  His/her (this is a very androgynous Totem) breath echoes the rhythm of all life, and the cycle that all living things follow.  Dolphin's is the grace that follows from living in harmony with All Our Relations.  Dolphin is a great friend of humanity -- indeed, dolphins have often saved drowning people by dragging them to safety -- and teaches of selflessness and a willingness to help others in need.  He/she also helps his/her children develop the gifts of relaxation and peace, and counsels of how to let go of anxiety and stress through the use of concentration and breath control.  Dolphin is the guardian of all ecstatic states (such as the Shaman's Journey and the ecstatic trances of the Sufis) that are reached through (among other things) concentration and the control of one's rate of breathing.  Dolphin allows us to experience the joys of spiritual freedom, and to truly live in the moment.  This Guide's Medicine is reassuring, calming and liberating.  Dolphins live in very closely knit social groups that are extremely supportive and communicative, and thus the arts of communication and empathy are also gifts this Teacher has to impart.

DRAGONFLY -- According to one legend (which I once heard long ago and have since seen retold in the excellent companion book to Medicine Cards written by Jamie Midnight Song and David Carson), Dragonfly was once able to take a multitude of forms and was always in flux.  This Guide was trapped in his/her present form when Coyote convinced him/her that it was the only real from Dragonfly had ever had, and that all the others had just been illusions.  Thus, having been tricked out of something wonderful by doubting his/her own ability, Dragonfly warns of the danger of limiting yourself, and reminds us that no one pigeonholes and limits us as much as we do ourselves.  Dragonfly teaches of the dangers of illusion, and the illusory nature our lives can take on when they become unbalanced -- too mundane or too flighty, too placid or too chaotic.  Dragonfly counsels against deception, especially self-deception (being, in this, much like Owl), and teaches the importance of seeing the whole of a situation and all its parts clearly and without bias.  However, Dragonfly also teaches of the distinction between and value of both fantasy and reality.  Each serves its own unique and essential purpose, and Dragonfly Medicine is to walk in balance between both of them.  He/she also shows us the mutability of our Universe and its infinite inherent possibilities.  That there are very, very few things that are truly impossible.  Dragonfly teaches us to know this in our hearts, and reach for the stars.

E-F-G

EAGLE -- All of the Animal Guides are sacred and holy in their unique and special ways.  However, none of the Totems is so intensely so as Eagle, who is the representative and messenger of Tankashilah, Father Sky (the male side of divinity in Lakota belief) as well as the unofficial leader of the Animal Teachers.  His is the Medicine of the sacred and divine, and he teaches of the infinite power of Spirit.  He counsels of the importance of realizing what a close connection and union we all have with the Great Spirit and All Our Relations.  As Eagle soars so high in the sky, he flies close to Tankashilah and the Thunder Beings, and shares what he brings back of the Holy Way.  Eagle's distance from the world allows him to view it objectively and with great clarity.  Eagle people are among the most innately and tangibly holy in the world -- their very presence blesses others.  They are also sometimes naive or overly critical if they are out of balance.  It should be said that Eagle's holiness does not make him better, wiser, more sacred, more important or more powerful than any other Guide -- he is different but equal, as they all are.  Eagle is only the unofficial leader of the Totems, mostly because he's good at it, not because he's the head of some Totemic hierarchy.  Eagles lead by example, not by telling others what to do, and are very much loners at heart.

ELK -- Elk teaches of the Medicines of stamina and strength -- and not only of a physical sort, but also mental, emotional and spiritual stamina and strength as well.  Elk may not be the quickest of animals, but he knows the value of pacing oneself, and thus he can get where he's going without wearing himself out.  He teaches of stamina, perseverance and honor.  Elk's demeanor is one of great pride, but not in a negative sense, for it is joy in truly knowing both one's gifts and limitations.  Elk teaches of the value of pride and honor through his action, and his students learn to carry themselves with pride and a regal demeanor.  Elk always acts honorably, and counsels that we should truly "walk our talk".  Words are not enough, for it is what is done that truly matters, says this Teacher.  Elk, through the haunting whistling noises he makes, is also quite adept at attracting a mate, and teaches his students how to do so as well.

FERRET -- Ferret is often either mistaken for Weasel or is sadly underestimated and trivialized because his children are such popular pets nowadays.  Though closely related to Weasel, Ferret's lessons are quite different.  Ferret teaches of the many uses of spiritual energy, something he and his children are quite endowed with.  Ferret also teaches of the value of curiosity and taking risks, and also of overcoming frivolity and worry (the two major flaws of those with this Medicine).  Ferret people are often accused of being eccentric or hyperactive, and are only rarely understood.  Except by Ravens, of course, that is.

FINCH -- Finch is a very varied bird whose avian (and human, for that matter) children come in a huge variety of shapes, colors and size -- there are literally hundreds of species of finches across the world.  Finch teaches of variety and multiplicity (in this being much like Raven), integrating different beliefs and sides of a situation into a cohesive whole.  Finch also teaches of the relationship between simplicity and complexity.  That's about all I know about this Teacher.

FLY -- Teaches the valuable lessons of alertness, persistence and perseverance.  I've never known of anyone who had Fly Medicine -- perhaps this Guide just teaches by example.

FOX -- True to legends on both sides of the Atlantic, Fox is very clever and sly indeed.  Fox teaches the lessons of becoming hidden and camouflaged when it is best to remain unseen and simply observe.  Fox and his children use intangibility, disguise and vagueness as tools.  This Teacher's lessons center around adaptability and flexibility -- in particular the power to adapt to a situation and use it to one's benefit, acting quickly and decisively at the proper time.  Among the abilities Fox teaches are becoming unseen (by blending spiritually into the background for a time) and shapeshifting (of a spiritual and, with a few, physical sort).  Fox's students are taught of the great value of subtlety and craftiness, and are truly elusive, remaining always just out of reach of those who pursue them.  Fox people know they are cleverer than most, but they must remain humble, or they end up falling into an unbalanced state where they become callous and extremely manipulative -- for they know human nature very well, and are able to exploit it easily.  But this is them at their worst.  At their best, Fox and his children use their gifts of slyness and obfuscation to the benefit of the People -- scouting, spying on enemies and learning much in secret.  There is a hidden but very powerful martyr instinct in Fox, who prefers to place himself rather than others in danger:  a song of the Fox Society of my tribe goes "I am a Fox. I am supposed to die.  If there is anything difficult, if there is anything dangerous, it is mine to do."

FROG -- Frog is the caller of the gentle rains that come from the West to bring cleansing and healing.  This Guide is closely associated with the element of water, and gives the gifts of cleansing and renewal to the People.  This Guide also teaches of the power of emotion, and how powerful feelings can be both positive or destructive depending on the situation.  Frog also counsels of knowing when one's life is healthily in motion like a river, and when the waters of one's life are stagnant and lifeless.  Frog helps to keep things flowing well, and helps us become renewed when we stagnate.

(MOUNTAIN) GOAT -- Teaches the lessons of surefootedness -- not only physically, but also in relation to making decisions and maneuvering in one's daily life, hardiness, flexibility and the ability to use all available resources wisely and respectfully.  Mountain Goat's animal children have always been seen by the Lakota as being somewhat mysterious, and their hides were long prized.

GOPHER -- Gopher is a master at preparing for the future, and for all possible contingencies, and is the gatherer of the Totems.  He teaches of preparedness and foresight, as well as working within a community in these ways. Beyond that, I know very little about this Guide.

GRACKLE -- This beautiful, clever and often comical bird teaches of the value of moderation in all things and overcoming excess, as well as the distinction between mere words and the actions that must accompany them.  Grackle also counsels of the proper expression of emotion.  I've yet to the get the full idea, though, about Grackle Medicine, but I'm sure it's a fascinating journey!

GRASSHOPPER -- Teaches of sacred music and the power of song.  As with many of the insect Guides, Grasshopper doesn't have very many human students.  But the ones this Teacher does take are gifted at expressing themselves through song, drumming and other kinds of music to the benefit of the community.

GROUSE -- Grouse (also called Prairie Chicken) teaches (much like Grasshopper) of sacred drumming and dancing, which brings a greater understanding of the Sacred Spiral and the great dance of life.  Grouse's spiral dance also echoes the idea of Sacred Space.  This Guide also teaches of movement, honor and action.  Grouse Medicine is very hard to explain -- it must be experienced to be known, and it's less about knowing it in your head and more about feeling it in your muscles and bones.  It is the connection to the Divine (to use a Western term) and All Our Relations that comes from the magic of song and dance, of pouring out one's soul through such expression.  That's the best I can do to describe in words.  Grouse dances to the rhythm of the Earth Mother's heartbeat.

H-I

HAWK -- Hawk is the Great Messenger, bringer of messages, advice and warnings from the Spirits, the Ancestors, and from Tankashilah (Grandfather Sky) Himself.  Hawk is keen-eyed and super-observant, and teaches us to observe our surroundings and look for signals from the Medicine World of things to come.  As a Messenger, Hawk is responsible and restrained, not interfering with the messages he delivers or their meaning, but instead allowing the recipient to interpret it for him/herself.  Hawk and his students are fearless, bold and swift moving -- the great Lakota warrior Crazy Horse carried Hawk's Medicine.  Hawk teaches of the art of communication and its many uses.  This Teacher also has an uncanny gift for remembering details.  Hawk Medicine people don't have an easy purpose in life -- they serve to link different (and often conflicting) people and ideas as a bridge of communication that leads to greater harmony and understanding.  More than any other workers of Medicine, Hawk people truly serve as the intermediaries and "ambassadors" (if you will) between our world and the Medicine World, bringing knowledge of the Medicine Ways to those who would listen.  When out of balance, though, they become very hostile and shortsighted due to the fiery nature of their Guide.  Fortunately, their vision usually puts them back in their place soon enough.  This Teacher is closely connected to the Sun, and is the diametric opposite and complement of Owl.  Hawk reminds us of the path each of us has chosen for ourselves, and warns us when we stray too far from it.  Very wise and farsighted, Hawk is truly a great advisor as well.  He is serious, stern and very hard on his students, but cares for them deeply.

HERON -- Through his/her amazing ability to stand still in shallow water for hours waiting for prey and then grabbing it in his beak with lighting speed when it strays too close, Heron teaches the invaluable lesson of patience like no other Guide.  He/she counsels how to time your actions well, knowing when it's best to strike and when you should be still and wait.  Strong powers of observation are essential in Heron Medicine.  Heron Medicine people learn how to become incredibly patient, self-reliant and sharp, honing their five senses to a razor's edge.

HORSE -- Horse is power and freedom personified.  This Guide teaches of achieving a state in which we are powerful yet comfortable with and respectful of that power, and in which we are truly free, able to make our own decisions and steer our own destinies, but all the while realizing the greater destiny into which we fit.  This realization leads to a great increase in self-confidence, bravery and self-reliance.  Horse is the bringer of new journeys, and is always prepared for whatever they may bring.  This Guide also instructs his/her students in the gaining of wisdom and power through balance, and the importance of using power wisely -- for no misuse of power ever did any good nor led to any wisdom.  Horses are fiery, loving and powerful, but they are also skittish, and this is something Horse people must accept and get over.  One of Horse's most powerful lessons is that experience and wisdom are meant to precede power in order to make sure that power is used wisely and fully understood and appreciated.  Horse is a great vehicle for communication and the sharing of visions, and represents not only earthly power (for to steal another tribe's horses in the old days was to steal their power) but also unearthly and spiritual power and authority.  In Lakota, Horse's name -- Tashuunka Wakan -- translates literally to "Holy Dog," for the People had never seen such a remarkable animal before, one that could run so fast and carry so much, and the appearance of Horse's children was a great boon that revolutionized the way of life of the Lakota and other tribes (who had used dogs to pull sleds previously).  Just as the domestication of the horse completely changed the lifestyle of the Plains tribes and raised it to a new level, so Horse offers to take us quickly and safely to new levels of understanding.

HUMMINGBIRD -- Tiny, beautiful little Hummingbird is the Bringer of Joy.  Hummingbird is gentle and innocent, and teaches of the delicate yet powerful abilities of childlike playfulness, trust and resolve.  She brings happiness wherever she goes, and helps us to remember the joy and innocence we knew (or should have known) as children.  Hummingbird shows us how to laugh and play again, dropping the jaded, sad and angry faces we wear in the day to day world, and thus showing and being more our true selves than we normally get a chance to be.  A great gift indeed!

IKTOMI -- Iktomi is one of the two spider Guides, the other being his wife Spider Woman.  While his wife usually appears as the smaller spiders that weave intricate webs so that they might catch prey, Iktomi's children are tarantulas and other large ground-dwelling spiders.  Among the tribes of the Sioux Nation, Iktomi is known to be an extremely sly Trickster who is always getting himself in a great deal of trouble.  Causing mischief is what he does, much like Coyote, but while Coyote plays his tricks simply because being mischievous and silly is the way he is, Iktomi is the greedy Trickster who connives and cajoles, using others to get what he wants.  He is not malicious in his tricks, just unheeding of others -- something his children have to be very careful to steer clear of lest they forget others' needs entirely.  Central to Iktomi's Medicine is learning the difference between what we merely want and what we really need.  Iktomi goes to huge amounts trouble to get things that, in the end, he doesn't even need.  Thus, through his antics, Iktomi warns us not to make the same mistake.  He is also often faced with temptation, and has a very hard time resisting it (as do his human children).  While all of this may make it sound like Iktomi isn't a very good Guide to have, there are no inferior Medicines, and this one is as equal and essential as all the others.  Iktomi teaches his children the gifts of resourcefulness and slyness like no other, and he and all of his children are blessed with an almost unbelievable amount of luck.  Wherever Iktomi goes, not only trouble but also adventure is sure to follow.  He brings us fresh and new experiences when things get dull, and turns the world topsy turvy when it gets too serious so that we can laugh at it and at ourselves.

L-M

LIZARD -- Lizard is the Great Dreamer.  While this may seem like an easy job to have, this Guide's dreams consume him/her, and are of great importance.  Lizard is the patron of omens and visions received in dreams (as opposed to those one gets while awake or Journeying, which fall under the purview of other Guides), for he/she knows the great power they carry.  The great Oglala holy man Hehaka Sapa (Black Elk) once said "Sometimes dreams are wiser than waking."  This is the essence of Lizard Medicine.  For Lizard knows that dreams are not merely our mind at rest or play -- they are hints of what is to come, a way to creatively work out solutions to difficult problems and a means by which this reality and the future can be influenced and changed.  Lizard teaches how to refine your perceptions to pick up even the most vague and subtle of nuances and meanings -- for dreams are rarely straightforward.  Lizard people have a true gift for understanding symbols & metaphors and picking up hints.  This Teacher instructs us of the value of detachment and objectivity in understanding a situation or the world itself.  For by being apart from the waking world, Lizard sees is clearly and without bias (in this he/she is much like Eagle).  He/she also counsels of how to fine tune our intuition and discern between those dreams that are just dreams and those that are something more -- and in the case of the latter, Lizard people learn how to listen to and interpret the messages these dreams carry.  Lizard's children are often very "psychic", especially as they sleep, for they may journey to far-off places or receive omens as they slumber.  In that hazy state between sleeping and waking, Lizard gives us pieces to the puzzle of life that we could not find anywhere else.

LYNX -- Lynx is the Knower of Secrets.  All that others try to hide or forget about, he/she knows.  This doesn't mean that Lynx tells the world, though.  Indeed, it is extremely difficult to pry any information out of silent Lynx unless he/she's in a sharing mood (which isn't very often).  Lynx reminds us that ours is a mysterious world that we (even those of us directly in touch with the Spirits) only partially understand.  Lynx teaches his/her relatively few students the gifts of ambiguity, the proper keeping of knowledge and, most of all, tact.  Truly, Lynx's lessons about learning what to say and what not to in every situation could be of benefit to us all.  Lynx is the mystery and uncertainty which must always nag at the human soul.  Many heroes, Wise Ones and spirits have gone to Lynx for advice in the past.  It is not an easy thing to get him/her to consent to this, but when it happens, the knowledge and wisdom shared is often of an extremely potent and life-altering nature.

MANTIS -- Praying Mantis teaches of stillness as he/she waits motionless for very long periods of time for prey to pass by.  Mantis' biggest lessons concern timing one's actions well, knowing when it is proper to wait and when the time is right to pounce.   In this, this Guide is much like both Heron and Antelope, and I'm not sure how Mantis Medicine is distinct from these two very similar Guides' ways.

MINK -- Mink teaches the lessons of adaptation and balance, for she lives in two worlds, at home in both the rivers (where she is much like her sister Otter) and on land (where she is much like her brother Weasel).  She and her children know well how to find the harmonious point of balance between every set of extremes, and they often help others to learn this lesson as well.  Her students learn well the art of using their energy effectively and creatively.  However, they also know that it's impossible to be completely balanced all the time, and that sometimes you just have to sit back and let this happen for itself.  Mink also teaches of the difference between being frivolous and being well-grounded, and how to tell when you are one or the other.  She helps others realize the richness of life, but also warns not to get too carried away in the moment that you forget the past and the future.  Mink people learn to carefully balance all the elements of their lives, though when they are out of touch with their Medicine, everything tends to come crashing down around them as they slip into extremes.  So they must be wary to preserve this balance, which is different for each person.  But doing this is easier for them than it is for most of us.

MOOSE -- Moose is a tricky Guide to pin down as far as his/her Medicine goes -- perhaps Moose Medicine is just impossible to understand!  From what I know of Moose, he/she teaches of self-esteem, ego, contradiction, unpredictability, being judged by others and the primal energies of Nature. 

MOUNTAIN LION (AKA COUGAR, PUMA) -- Cougar teaches of the gifts and burdens of leadership, and hones those who are meant to guide others into caring, honest and dedicated leaders.  This Guide teaches her students of the proper use of such power, and of the many responsibilities a leader has.  She counsels of the importance of following your own personal truth and is a bringer of inspiration and courage.  Mountain Lion is both the fierce warrioress/leader and also a gentle and caring mother.  Her students are true leaders, for they lead by example, not by telling others what to do, and don't abuse their power.  They must be very careful, though, not to become unbalanced and misuse the great honor that has been bestowed upon them.  Cougar and her children walk alone, and do not ask others to follow.  Others do because we realize what noble and valiant hearts Cougar people have and the very difficult burden this Guide's children take on to help us.  Mountain Lion also shares will all the ability to detect and rid ourselves of self-serving leaders who do not have our best interests in mind.  This Guide is protective and caring of her children, but is also very stern and demanding with them, for that is the way leaders learn.

MOUSE -- Mouse is the most humble and meek of all the Guides.  Mouse's children are hunted by scores of land and aerial predators, and they could easily end up living in constant fear of being eaten (like Rabbit does).  But instead of being so fearful all the time, Mouse and his/her children live life to the fullest, thankful for every moment.  Mouse teaches of the inestimable value of humility and thankfulness, and the great power that the meek have by refusing to fear or worry.  Great faith is required of them in this, though, and when they become unbalanced, fear, doubt and depression take hold until they shake them off.  This Teacher also instructs us to scrutinize, for he/she is able to look at details and parts of a problem and find solutions others would have missed.  Mouse's children are among the most innately kind and helpful people you'll meet, and remind us all of how important humility, kindness and faith are, and how much wiser they make us.

O-P

OPOSSUM -- This Guide is the master of pretense and appearances, and is in many ways the best actor among the Totems.  He teaches of the value of diversion and the use of appearances through his many tricks and ruses, the most famous and effective of these being his ability to play dead so convincingly.  His students learn much of strategy as well, and are endowed with lightning quick wits and reflexes.  Opossum uses his gifts for both self-protection and the good of all, for his subtlety and great talent at acting allow him to sneak into places others cannot go and then return safely to let everyone know what's going on.  Opossum people tend to become shallow and predictable when they're out of balance, though, and thus must be careful to remember that all things have depth and are of importance.  It is interesting to compare and contrast Opossum with Raccoon, for they serve in pretty much the same role, but go about it in very different ways.

ORCA -- Orcas are known to many people as "killer whales", but since this is inaccurate and inappropriate (for while they hunt sea mammals, they never have been known to attack people and have a very undeserved name -- for everything kills to survive), I and many others use this Guide's Latin name.  Orca is a very benevolent Totem that teaches of the value and necessity of community.  In the Pacific Northwest, Orca is greatly revered and seen as a direct link between the animal tribes and mankind.  This Guide reminds us that we are all related, and counsels of the importance of sharing with All Our Relations.  Orca Medicine people are wonderful communicators, and bring different peoples together to share ideas and recognize our commonality.  They build bridges of communication and understanding wherever they go.  Oh, and by the way, Orca is good friend (though some legends I've heard say otherwise) of the other Totem that is so prevalent in the legends of Native peoples of the Pacific Northwest: Raven.  The two share much good Medicine, and despite being very different, through the bond they share each helps the other to become stronger and wiser through the sharing of love, understanding, ideas, abilities and beliefs.  That is the essence of Orca's Medicine.  This Teacher reminds us that we are never alone, and that we can never separate ourselves from All Our Relations.  We're all in this together, and we'd best learn to not only tolerate each other but to take the time to communicate so that we can love, respect and understand each other, and share our gifts.

OSPREY -- Osprey is very closely related to Hawk (indeed, he may be merely another aspect of Hawk).  This Guide teaches of pride -- in its most positive and most detrimental aspects, arrogance and the importance of tempering one's ego with humility.  Osprey also counsels us of how to be unrelenting in pursuing our goals.  Osprey Medicine is also Warrior Medicine.

OTTER -- Otter teaches of the great importance of playfulness and of honoring the powerful Medicine of women.  Jamie Midnight Song called her "the coquette of the animal kingdom" -- she is never overly worried and always up for new adventures.  Otter's something of a scamp, though she's much more charming and less mischievous than her brother Weasel.  Otter reminds us that our modern world and our reactions to it are often FAR too serious, and she teaches us of how to laugh and play again.  She is also the keeper of much feminine wisdom and power.  While playful, she is not childish, and is very much an adult who just happens to have retained the best qualities of youth while leaving behind the ones that are no longer appropriate.  She teaches women how to be both assertive and feminine, without falling into the pitfalls of being catty, submissive, jealous, manipulative or hateful of men.  Not surprisingly, most of Otter's human children are female, although she also teaches many a man how to laugh and play again -- this is especially needed by us, for many of us have forgotten these invaluable lessons (while many women are wise enough not to have done so).  Anyway, Otter is also quite selfless, and is always thinking of the needs and feelings of others.  Otter people always sense when you're down even when no one else notices, and they always know the perfect little gift to give you to lift your spirits.  They're selfless without denying themselves, and care for others deeply.  Otter is also very strong and resilient, though, and teaches her children how to be nurturing, independent, decisive, strong and caring all at the same time.

OWL -- Owl is the Keeper of the Mysteries -- the dark, silent and mysterious night flier that has so intrigued and terrified the human mind and soul since the beginning of time.  True to legend, Owl is indeed very wise, and will share his wisdom with those bold enough to seek him out and clever enough to listen.  He teaches of the secrets of all things mystical and hidden.  Owl has a decidedly dark and somewhat eerie demeanor, and often frightens others just by being around.  He is sorely misunderstood, though, especially by the few tribes that view him as a bird of ill omen that brings death and doom.  In reality, Owl is strange and rather creepy at times, but his wisdom is truly invaluable.  Learning from him is reminiscent of the archetypal Hero's Journey into the darkness to gain insight and power -- harrowing, but invaluable.  Owl teaches of the dangers of deception -- especially self-deception, the worst kind of all (in this he is much like Dragonfly) -- and of the importance of truth.  He shows us the naked and unfettered (and often ugly) truth(s) of any situation, allowing us to make our own interpretations.  Owl has learned by being something of a (mostly self-chosen) outcast how to turn almost any disadvantage into an advantage, and reminds us that sometimes we have to remove ourselves from the world and shun the company of others for a time to learn important lessons that come from deep within.  Owl is also the patron of divination, and teaches how to interpret readings with vision and objectivity.  He is intimately connected with Grandmother Moon, and is the diametric opposite and natural complement of Hawk.  Like Hawk, he is very stern with students and hard on them, but also like Hawk, is secretly very caring of and almost fanatically loyal to them.  Wise beings listen to Owl's words -- and the hidden subtleties behind them -- when we chooses to speak

PANTHER -- Panthers are actually just black leopards (black jaguars are occasionally called panthers as well).  Although not native to Turtle Island (the Native name for North America), he/she now has students here.  One of those strange things I can't explain.  Anyway, Panther is the Great Guardian -- he/she and his/her children safeguard those things and people which is/are sacred or otherwise important.  This Guide's lessons revolve around discipline and self-control, which grow in his/her students to prepare them for the challenges and adventures to come.  Panther also reminds us of the importance of reclaiming and honoring our personal power.

PARROT -- Parrot is the Great Communicator, and was honored as such by the Aztecs and other tribes of Central America.  He links the different and brings us all closer together with a polished yet easygoing style that builds lasting bridges of understanding.  He teaches us to value those who are different and don't conform to what our society says is normal, and reminds us that it does indeed take all kinds of people with all kinds of gifts and ways to make us whole.  His radiant hues bring the joy of sunshine and laughter to us.  He is closely associated with color, and teaches of the inherent Medicine in colors.  Parrot is everyone's best friend, and knows much of the power of charisma.  He has the innate gift to truly and sincerely listen to others and understand them, and then to recount what he has learned to others in a way readily understood by them.  It's just this whole big circle o' understanding, Raven would say.  Parrot naturally puts others at ease and helps people come to terms with their true natures in very gentle ways.  He is extremely intelligent and resourceful.  I greatly admire Parrot and his Medicine -- his students are among the coolest people around, and they have the truly marvelous gift of understanding everyone's language (figuratively speaking, and literally too, sometimes).  With a Parrot person, you are guaranteed not only to be heard, but to be understood, often on much deeper levels than you expect.

PORCUPINE -- Porcupine is truly the incarnation of innocence and trust.  Great Mystery has provided her with formidable protection in the form of her quills, so she doesn't have to worry much at all.  Just as she is protected, she reminds us that we are all blessed and protected by the Spirits and Great Mystery.  Porcupine's is the love and playfulness of a child.  She has much to teach the jaded and blasé.  When she must she sticks such people in the behind to remind them of what they've forgotten.  Porcupine trusts others implicitly, with all of her being, until she receives proof that trust is not warranted or has been betrayed.  In doing so, she counsels not to be too suspicious or paranoid.  Humanity would be much better off if we all learned a thing or two from Porcupine.

R

RABBIT -- Rabbit is the teacher of fear and how to overcome it.  Rabbit is so afraid of being eaten that he draws predators to him -- his worrying and fear actually attract the very object of his fear to him.  To have Rabbit Medicine is to learn that we allow fear to control us and our worry to create the very situations we fear -- instead of doing this, Rabbit people slowly learn to trust and value themselves.  They do this by gaining the ability to discern when their fears are justified and should be listened to, and when they're just needlessly irrational and impulsive urges that should be ignored.  In this way Rabbit people hone their senses in such a way that they can leave needless fear, doubt and worry behind while listening to and accepting valid fear and apprehension.  Rabbit also has much to teach of humility and trusting in Great Mystery.  Rabbits can be attacked and eaten at any moment, so living in fear is their default way of going about things.  However, they have the opportunity to seize the day, making the most out of each moment they are given and living life to the fullest, with thankfulness for all gifts bestowed.  When they do this, they are truly walking in power and wisdom.  Rabbit knows much of fertility, both in the obvious physical sense and in a creative and spiritual one.  This Teacher is often underestimated, and he has learned how to use the negative assumptions of others to his advantage.

RACCOON -- Raccoon is the Master of Masks -- his name in Lakota translates to "The Magic One of the Painted Face."  Raccoon has the ability to feign just about any emotion, personality and mental state.  He seems like the perfect con-man, and in a sense he is.  But he uses his abilities to the benefit of the People.  His children learn how to use their social masks to better understand and work with people.  By taking on the stance of another, they learn much about that person's point of view, and thus can better interact with that person and help them.  Wearing a mask of Raccoon Medicine is less acting and more becoming what you are imitating for a short period of time.  It's hard to explain, and really must be experienced to be understood.  Anyway, Raccoon has much to teach of dexterity, skill and disguise.  He is very practical and much more talented and comfortable with working with our world and everyday dilemmas than some of the more conservative Guides.  I cannot express in words the gratitude and joy I feel toward his involvement in my path.  Raccoon has always been extremely friendly and willing to help me at a moment's notice, for he is very protective and kind toward his students.  This Guide is not as flamboyant with his mischief as the Tricksters are, but never forget that he's unmatched in slyness and guile.  He also teaches of the value of curiosity and taking risks.  Raccoon is the complete opposite of Blue Jay, and their Medicines tend to cancel each other out when they meet.  Just as Blue Jay people must be careful not to let themselves become cynical, though, Raccoon people must be cautious not to fall so deeply into the masks they wear that they forget themselves.

RAT -- Rat doesn't sound like a very noble or appealing Guide to have, but his/her shrewdness, practicality and skill are indeed priceless.  Rat teaches of the importance of scrutiny and attention to even the smallest and most subtle of details, for everything can be of importance.  Rat is almost supernaturally alert, and has an uncanny ability to take advantage of every situation and to overcome just about every kind of adversity.  He/she wastes nothing, for waste is the refusal of Great Mystery's gifts in this Teacher's eyes.  Rats are renowned for their wits, innovative minds and shrewdness, and with good reason.  Rat people must be careful not to become manipulative, though -- this is a very easy trap to fall in, considering how much more aware and clever they are than most people.  This Guide is still relatively new to Turtle Island, and we're still learning about his/her Medicine.  But Rat is to be respected as much as all other Guides -- for every animal species is a child of the Earth Mother, and is equal in Her eyes.

RAVEN -- Raven is perhaps the hardest Guide to explain.  Raven is the most multifaceted and diverse of the Totems, being so many things at once: Creator (many legends of the tribes of the Pacific Northwest note Raven as playing a key role in the creation of the world), Magician, Trickster, Messenger and Hero (for in many tales it was he who stole the Sun, Moon and stars and placed them in the sky).  He is a great contrary and eccentric, always breaking protocol and acting strangely (and some would say inappropriately).  He embodies many seemingly contrary opposites -- he is wily and foolish, carelessly mischievous and very responsible, wildly hilarious and deathly serious, mystical and worldly, all at the same time.  It is said that everything a raven is, he/she is also its complete opposite.  Raven is the Wise Fool, the seemingly silly and irreverent one who holds great wisdom behind his eccentric demeanor and mischievous grin.  Raven people are people of extremes -- physically, socially, emotionally and spiritually -- and must learn to effortlessly glide between the contradictory ways of seeming to be and being that are within us.  Raven is extremely intelligent and a great communicator, and he gifts us with great minds, silver tongues and a talent for languages and/or mimicry.  Anyway, Raven teaches of the power and value of change, chaos, the unexpected and going against the grain.  He is infamous for his razor-sharp wits and the infinite number of pranks, tricks and other mischief he's pulled over the eons.  There is almost always a method to his madness, though, for even his tricks usually have some sort of purpose behind them -- such as showing a foolish or arrogant person the error of their ways.  Not that Raven lets on to anyone else what his reasons are, though.  Thus he often appears devious, crazy or impulsive.  This Guide teaches of multiplicity, of being many things and people at once.  His children are among the most diverse and complex people you'll ever meet.  Through his inner diversity and chaos (it is said that at least one facet of a Raven person's life is in complete disarray at any given moment), Raven echoes the great variety of the Universe.  He is the bringer of magic and the unexpected.  His wisdom is great because he "thinks outside the box", as it were, and comes from such an unconventional point of view that he sees everything from a distance, standing far enough away to see the proverbial "Big Picture".  Raven is also, in a way, the exception to every rule, and he works outside the normal laws of Nature and society.  He serves as the messenger of the primordial darkness, the original Source, from which all things spring and where Great Mystery dwells.  Raven flies into the darkness and brings back with him that which is hidden, lost and obscure, exposing it to the light of day.  He also has much to teach of the great importance of humor, for though he deals in many serious matters, he never lets the gravity of these situations overwhelm him.  He reminds us (much as Coyote does, though in a slightly different way) to laugh at the world and at ourselves. Being mostly a carrion eater, Raven is intimately associated with death, but not in a negative way.  He teaches us not to fear death, for it is only a threshold through which we must walk before we continue our journeys elsewhere.  He shows us the light beyond the present darkness and reminds us that the joy and activity of dawn must always follow the sorrow and solitude of night (and vice-versa).  Raven is the patron of the working of Medicine, magic and ritual, carrying the energy and intention that is sent to its proper destination.  Magic follows him wherever he goes, and you never know exactly what will happen when you're in his company.  He is brother to Crow, and a natural counterpart to her Medicine -- Crow is the Keeper of the Sacred Law, and Raven is the Bringer of Magic, Mystery and Change (in a sense the former is order, the latter chaos).  They're both opposites and pretty much the same at the same time.  Raven guides his children to strange new ways of thinking and being, taking things a little at a time, knowing we must be prepared before we embark on new adventures or new levels of wisdom.  He reminds the rest of us that there is more than one way to go about anything, and that all points of view are valid.  He counsels that life is uncertainty, but that that's a wonderful thing, and allows us to know the full range of beauty, love, growth and adventure.  Raven is so many things at once, such an intoxicating, shocking mixture of strange brews that he must be experienced to be known.  And even then he doesn't make much sense to most people -- he is in many ways the most misunderstood of all the Totems (except by those who carry his Medicine).  He and his children carry the disadvantage of never being able to be fully understood by anyone else.  Raven's irreverence, quick changes of moods and strange behaviour make him one of a kind, and he cannot even be relied upon to be unreliable and unpredictable.  But that's his wonderful, confusing way.

ROACH -- Yes, Roach is in many ways disgusting, but as Raven would say, that's all a part of his charm.  Universally despised by humanity, Roach and his children have nonetheless thrived and prospered, because he is the Great Survivor.  Roach knows the lessons of survival and perseverance like no other.  Like many of the insect Guides, he has very few human children, and those people who carry his Medicine are usually outcasts of one sort or another, but are as tough as nails and can withstand just about everything.  Some may think of the idea of a cockroach Guide as being weird, silly or nasty, but they need to be reminded that ALL of creation, not just those animals that we consider noble, cute or cool, is loved by the Great Ones and imbued with a unique and powerful wisdom and spirit.

S

SALMON -- Salmon is a strange Guide to work with, but exceedingly wise and selfless.  Two legends strike me when thinking about this Guide.  The first is a Celtic myth in which there is a well where many salmon live.  Above it stands the Tree of Wisdom, and from it hazelnuts (the traditional fruit of wisdom in the lore of that culture) fall into the well and are eaten by the salmon.  Thus these fish become the wisest creatures in the world.  Also, in the lore of the tribes of the Pacific Northwest (among others), Salmon is said to teach of self-sacrifice, for after they have traveled upstream to their birthplace (which they must find after many years of living far away at sea), they spawn and then die.  Thus they give a huge bounty of food to so many creatures, including bears, ravens and humanity.  Salmon imparts wisdom concerning healing (some of the world's greatest Healers have Salmon Medicine) and working for the good of All Our Relations.  Through his/her difficult journey upstream to spawn, he/she teaches us to strive with all our of our might to reach our goals, persevere and insure a bright future for those who come after us.

SCORPION -- Scorpion Medicine is very difficult to bear.  Scorpion is often hostile toward the other Guides, and lives in self-imposed exile.  Many perceive him as a heartless villain, but he is not really like that.  This Guide teaches of manipulation -- both of the times when it is necessary (few and far between) and when it is destructive (most of the time).  Scorpion also counsels of the ways of self-reliance and independence.  Through his choice of living in isolation, close to no one, he shows us how to look after our own interests when that is necessary and lets us know when it is time to do so.  Scorpion does not become entangled in situations or relationships that only drain his time, energy and emotions, and counsels us not to make that mistake either.  However, his constant state of agitation and hostility (not to mention the disrespect he often shows other Totems) reminds that forgetting that we are all related and in this together, part of the greater community that is our Earth, is to live in delusion and misery.  His students are very much loners who walk a difficult path, but Scorpion is protective of and loyal towards his children like no other Guide.  This Teacher may seem negative and not very appealing, but as with all of them, he is respected and honored for the wisdom he carries, and is equal to all others.

SEAL -- Seal is the gentle traveler of the waves.  He/she teaches of imagination, creativity and following the "Inner Voice" that is within each of us.  Seal calls to us from the depths, from the subconscious.  His/her cry is mournful and almost human, and echoes of love and longing.  In Irish legends some seals are said to have the ability to shed their skins take human form --- theSelkies, they are called.  In many tales a man steals the skin a Selkie woman sheds when she comes ashore, and then coerces her to marry him.  Such marriages always end in sadness, though, for the Selkie inevitably finds her seal skin and must return to her home in the sea.  Many of the clans of Ireland and Scotland claim ancestry from seals through such couplings.  Here on Turtle Island, there are similar tales among coastal tribes of seals that take human form and share Medicine with us.  Seal is indeed closely connected to humanity, and reminds us that animals aren't as different from us as we might think.

SHARK -- Shark is truly the Hunter, relentless in his pursuit of prey.  Contrary to popular legend, though, sharks are not just cold-blooded killing machines.  Shark and his children serve in a pivotal role in the ecosystem of the oceans.  Shark teaches of relentlessness, directed power and the relationship between the hunter and the hunted.  Shark echoes the truly primal and reminds us of our world's long, long past.  He is greatly honored by the native people of Hawaii and other tribes that earn their living from the sea as shrewd, powerful and respectful of those who are brave and clever.

SHRIKE -- This small bird is nonetheless quite bold and almost cruel, for she impales her prey upon thorns and barbed wire to kill them.  Her ferocity despite her small size teaches us not to make the mistake of underestimating others.  Also, through her actions Shrike warns of the pitfalls of comparison and obsession.  She teaches of the dangers of jealous behavior and the great value of being content in your Medicine, not coveting the gifts of others, for that is denying the unique gifts you have been given.  Shrike also has much to teach of self-improvement, of honing our innate talents while working on those areas in which we are lacking.

SKUNK -- Skunk has much to teach of respect and the power of reputation.  Predators give him much leeway because they know of the horrible stench he can create when threatened.  Skunk teaches that we too are known by our reputations (good and bad), and that a person's reputation does truly precede them -- and that it can help or hinder greatly.  This Guide's lessons all revolve around respect.  Respect is indeed earned, not given.  Skunk counsels that living honorably puts us in harmony with not only ourselves but also with others, and that a good reputation comes from living honorably.  He/she reminds us that we are not always perceived by others the same way as we see ourselves -- indeed, the two are often very different.  Skunk counsels that we often unknowingly draw beneficial and detrimental things, situations and people into our life, often without even realizing it.  Skunk Medicine involves learning how to draw positive events and people while repelling negative ones, and Skunk has much to teach of relationships as well.  This Guide shows us that our perceptions not only influence our thinking, but also influence the world around us.  And that both our perceptions of ourselves and those of others toward us are often lacking or flawed.  It is said that a man is three things: that which he thinks he is, that which others think he is and what he really is.  That is the essence of Skunk Medicine.

SNAKE -- There are multiple species of Snake Guides, but they are all extremely closely connected to one another (almost to the point of being different aspects of the same being) and teach different variations on the same concepts.  All Snake Medicine revolves in some away around transmutation, wisdom, change, healing, sensuality and mystery.  Snakes are fiery and dangerous, but they are also very wise, and have the ability to heal as well as harm.  Serpents have fascinated and terrified humanity from the beginning of time, and they have been loved, hated, feared and revered across the world with an intense passion that we reserve for very few animals.  The shedding of a snake's skin brings renewal of a kind like no other, and many ancient peoples believed serpents to be immortal because of this.  Snakes have much to teach us of healing, cleansing, foresight and transformation.  Snake Medicine people are very rare, and tend to be chosen by a particular Snake Guide.

Some of the members of the Snake Clan include:

Copperhead -- Copperhead is the Great Seer.  She teaches of the way of the Seer, of the receiving and interpreting of visions, hidden truths and omens.  Her children learn of divination, prophecy, great insight and spiritual transformation.  Copperhead Medicine people are extremely rare, and serve (once they have completed their training, which takes a very long time) as the seers and prophets of humanity.  Copperhead almost always appears as female, and is sometimes seen as a bent and withered old crone.  She also counsels of balance, particularly in relation to the emotions.  She and her children are fiery and moody, and must learn to balance their tendencies toward extremes.

Rattlesnake -- Rattlesnake teaches of brotherhood/sisterhood, and why it is necessary.  There is an old Apache legend in which Rattlesnake was said to be kind and gentle at the beginning of time, and didn't wish to be a predator, even though this was ordained by the Great Spirit.  However, Great Spirit understood Rattlesnake's wishes and so gave him his rattle so that he could warn those approaching of his presence.  This Guide teaches of recognizing not only our own needs but also the needs and motives of others.  This empathy helps immensely when trying to understand people and their actions.  He also imparts Medicine concerning judgment and the heeding of warnings from the Spirits.  Like all the Guides of the Snake Clan, Rattlesnake teaches of transformation, his specialty being the emotional kind.  He is very kind and benevolent toward people, unless he is threatened and forced to strike, and thus teaches of the reining in of anger except when it is warranted.

Water Moccasin -- Water Moccasin is another member of the Snake Clan, one who is very fearless and aggressive for a snake.  Unlike other species who are cautious and avoid mankind, Water Moccasin is quite bold.  He teaches of shrewdness, courage, imagination and mental transformation.  Beyond this, I'm not very familiar with his Medicine.

SNOW LEOPARD -- Although not native to Turtle Island (snow leopards live in the highest mountain ranges of Asia), in the past few decades this Guide has begun to manifest in people here.  Snow Leopard teaches of the difficult lessons that come from learning through sorrow.  This Guide does not cause such pain, but helps his/her children to heal deep emotional wounds.  He/she counsels of how to overcome limitation, guilt, sadness and fear by accepting them and then letting them go.  This process brings renewal.  His/her lessons involve acceptance of the loss the realization that we are all cared for and loved immensely by Great Mystery (and every other conception of God throughout the world), who loves us enough to let us make our own decisions and live with their consequences. Snow Leopard thus brings cleansing and healing, allowing us to love and live again.  His/hers is a much needed wisdom indeed these days.

SPARROW -- Sparrow may seem quite drab in comparison to some of the flashier members of the Winged Clan, but she also has very powerful Medicine to impart.  She teaches of self-worth, reminding us that we are all special and unique, and that we are all loved by our Creator.  Her Medicine involves learning how to be powerful without arrogance, and she counsels of the dignity and common nobility that we all possess.  Sparrow also knows much of how to prosper despite adversity.  She never wavers in her faith, both in her own capability to handle any situation (calling on help when needed, for no one can do everything themselves) and in Great Mystery's love for her and us all.  This Teacher is full of the spirit of community, and helps bring us all together by showing us that we all have far more in common than we think.

SPIDER WOMAN -- Spider Woman is one of the two spider Guides, the other being her husband Iktomi the Trickster.  She is the Great Weaver of intricate webs that represent life.  She reflects the great creative power of women, her creativity pouring forth in her creations, her inner voice being given a chance to speak in them.  To her, the Universe itself is a giant web that is forever being added to and reconstructed.  Our world is not some stolid, prefabricated mold that cannot be changed -- indeed, Spider Woman reminds us, it is changing all the time.  She cautions us not to get so caught up in our everyday lives and the mundane that we believe we have no choice of our own, that we are left to the whims of chance, Fate or fickle Fortune.  Spider Woman teaches that we are not spectators in the great dance of life, but dancers ourselves.  In other words, we are a part of the Web of Life, and thus have the power to change it.  She warns not to get entangled in our current situation and perspective to the point that we cannot see the entirety of the web.  To do so is to see only a small part of the picture, to live in a world of shadows where we continually pass up opportunities for growth and look down on others for being different.  Spider Woman has much to teach of gaining and keeping perspective, and reminds us that not only is our perspective influenced by our environment, but that it works vice-versa as well.  It is said that she created the first alphabet and gave it to the People.  It was because she believed in her potential and ability to do so that she was able to.  Willpower and faith are powerful forces that when properly focused can achieve most anything.  Spider Woman's body is shaped like the number eight, and (when turned on its side) like the symbol for infinity, which is fitting, for she teaches of the infinite possibilities inherent in Creation.  In the words of Jamie Midnight Song, "The most important message from Spider is that you are an infinite being who will continue to weave the patterns of life and living throughout time.  Do not fail to see the expansiveness of the eternal plan."  Spider Woman also teaches of the necessity of living in harmony with our Mother the Earth, and that it is wrong to try to conquer and subdue Her.  For you see, being a part of Great Web of Life, whatever harm we do to it, we bring upon ourselves. It works both ways.

SQUIRREL -- Squirrel gathers nuts and other food and hides them in safe places in order to stock up for winter.  Thus he/she teaches of the importance of preparing for the future.  Squirrel helps us prepare for that which is to come by acting with purpose and foresight in the present.  He/she helps us get over the tendency for procrastination and laziness that we all have to one degree or another.  Squirrel also has much to teach of the importance of the balance of giving and taking, of learning not to take too much or too little.  Neither selfish gluttony nor ascetic martyrdom are Squirrel's way.  He/she also teaches of the extremely important balance in a person's life between work and play -- and that everyone needs a good amount of each to feel happy, purposeful and well-adjusted.  Squirrel warns that too much of either is foolish and can be dangerous, and he/she represents a happy medium between the two.  This Guide also reminds us to think of the implications of our actions, of what effect they have on ourselves, our family & friends, our fellow beings and our world.

SWAN -- Swan is the personification of Grace, both in the physical sense and in a spiritual one.  More than any other Totem, Swan unfailingly trusts in Great Mystery's (or God's or the Goddess', etc.) plan, which is unique and special for each of us.  Swan teaches of how to accept both our gifts and our limitations with grace.  She brings peace through the ability to surrender our ego, fears and worry, and trust in the Divine.  She "goes with the flow", so to speak, and thus receives powerful healing, wisdom and transformation.  Swan Medicine People accept such gifts with humility and joy, and their trust in the future and the love of the Divine toward all of us, gifts them with the ability to see what the future holds.  Swan's children are very sensitive and "psychic".  This Guide always leaves me in awe -- she is neither pretentious nor arrogant, yet her majesty is there for all to see.  She is humble and wise indeed.  This Teacher also has much to teach of perspective and of how thin the veils between our world and the Medicine World really are.  To quote my dear friend Suzy, who is a Swan Person: "Look at the surface of a lake at night. The stars and trees are reflected in the surface of the water. But they are not in the water, as our eyes would seem to tell us. If you were to look up at the surface from beneath the water, the reflection would look very different. Neither world is more real to you unless you are currently immersed in it. Swan skims the reflective surface between both worlds, and so can we."

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TURKEY -- Turkey may seem like a rather strange sort of Guide to have, but his wisdom is great, for he bestows the gifts of unselfishness and giving.  There is a wonderful tradition among Indian people called the Give Away, in which a person will gladly give up everything, all he or she owns, for the benefit of the People.  The Give Away often mystifies and confuses non-Indian people, for do we not live in a society where acquiring wealth and power is seen as all important?  Unlike contemporary American culture, Native American ways teach to hold the welfare of others in as high regard (if not higher) as that of oneself, and to always remember the community and how it might be benefited or harmed when making decisions.  From an Indian standpoint, no one wins unless everybody wins -- unless everyone's needs are met.  Turkey represents this holistic view, and is the essence of this idea.  He and his children have transcended selfishness and looking out for number one, and they see the greater whole and the needs of everyone in everything they do.  Turkey gives of himself so that others may eat and live.  Turkey Medicine People no longer think in terms of*me* and *I*, but instead of *us*.  They act and react on the behalf of others, and are truly selfless.  They do not forget themselves, though, and are not martyrs -- on the contrary, they have come to know themselves very well, and in doing so have come to realize that nothing we do is done alone, and that nothing we do is without repercussions.  It is said that many great saints and mystics have carried Turkey Medicine.  I have known at least one who certainly did.

TURTLE -- Turtle is the personification of and representative of our Mother the Earth (also called the Goddess by some).  She brings great wisdom and reminders of love from our Mother, and reminds us that no matter what we get ourselves into, She is always with us, guiding and loving us.  We are never alone, Turtle counsels.  This Guide also teaches of protection and how to use it -- just as her shell protects her from predators, so we can erect our own "shell" of protection to keep us safe from stress, negativity and hostility.  Turtle counsels patience in one's life, and teaches that by trying to move too fast we only slow ourselves down.  She teaches of grounding, gifting the more flighty among us with the ability to remain focused and centered.  She reminds us to act with compassion, just as the Great Mother is motherly and compassionate with all of us, her children.  Turtle is profoundly connected with the element of Water, which allows her to flow with situations as they come, and with Earth, which allows her to place her feet firmly on the ground, figuratively as well as literally.  North America is traditionally known as Turtle Island among many tribes, and with good reason.  Also, very importantly, Turtle reminds us to give back to the Earth as She has given to us.  To treat the Earth with respect and to tread lightly on it is to honor the ways of Turtle.  Turtle Medicine people are extremely well grounded and connected with their surroundings, and stress and negativity roll off them when they would seriously harm others.  They have much love and caring to impart.  They must remember, though, not to become so wrapped up in this world that they forget the Medicine World and the ways of the Spirits.

VULTURE -- Vulture is one of the most misunderstood and maligned of Guides.  Hardly the grim, nasty parasite who fiendishly preys on the weak and dying, Vulture fills an essential niche in the ecosystem by feeding on carrion that would otherwise putrefy and bring disease.  Contrary to popular legend, vultures are exceedingly clean animals -- they constantly preen themselves and spread their wings out in sunlight to kill bacteria and parasites.  This Guide teaches of purification, the recycling of that which no longer is useful and clarity of vision.  Vulture Medicine People know how to deal with messes and sticky situations of both a physical and spiritual sort, bringing a happy resolution to such problems.  Vulture often teaches people how to clean up their own messes, so to speak, so that such last minute intervention isn't necessary.  He/she also counsels of how to stay out of unecessary trouble and how to use power of any sort wisely.  Because he/she feeds exclusively on carrion, Vulture has an intimate association with the cycle of life, death and rebirth (in this Vulture and Raven have a lot in common), and is closely linked with the Crone aspect (as Pagans would say) of the Earth Mother.  Vulture also helps us to give up old ideas, beliefs, lifestyles, relationships, possessions and habits that no longer serve us, letting go of them and letting the Medicine we gave them be recycled into something better.  This Guide brings renewal and second chances wherever he/she goes.

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WEASEL -- Weasel is quite a scamp and rogue, bursting with energy and mischief.  He teaches (in his fun, roundabout sort of way) of the use of physical energy, stealth and observation.  Weasel's powers of observation are uncanny, and he rarely misses anything. To quote JamieSams' & David Carson's "Medicine Cards" again: "Weasel has an incredible amount of energy and ingenuity, yet it is a difficult Power Totem to have.  It is not without significance that ermine, or weasel pelt, is worn by royalty.  Weasel ears hear what is really being said.  This is a great ability.  Weasel eyes see beneath the surface of a situation to know the many ramifications of an event.  This too is a rare gift."  Weasel knows the hidden reasons behind most anything, and it's very hard to fool him.  He was traditionally the one sent to gauge the power of the enemy, and after doing so very stealthily, he always came back with an accurate report.  Through his playfulness (which may seem at odds with the silence of the scout, but is not), he teaches us of the inner child within all of us, and to honor him or her.  He also reminds, as Coyote does, of the healing power of laughter, and how important it is not to take life too seriously.  His speedy reflexes and great quickness are imparted to his children (weasel and human), who are able like no other to act quickly (whether it's making witty remarks or avoiding danger) and sneak out of tricky situations.  Weasel is adept at hunting prey many times his size and can lock his jaws like a vise until the prey has bled to death.  He has much to teach of fearlessness and the Medicine of the warrior.  He is very bold and courageous, showing little fear even around humans.  His strength of mind and cunning are great, and there are few who can hoodwink him.  Weasel Medicine People take an active curiosity in events and people, which can get downright nosy if they're not careful.  Altogether, Weasel's a fun, hard and bewildering Totem to carry the Medicine of.the warrior.

WHALE -- Whale is the Great Keeper of Records.  His/her fathomlessly deep eyes echo the past, and he/she is the keeper of the knowledge and wisdom of times gone by.  Whale also teaches of the power of song, for in this Guide's haunting songs great Medicine dwells.  Whale Medicine People are deeply influenced by music and sound in general, which is their most potent form of communication (indeed, many Whale People end up as extremely gifted singers and musicians).  Certain tones and notes bring up powerful universal memories in people, and even more so with Whale people.  Whenever the other Guides want information on something that happened long ago or ancient wisdom, they go to Whale.  All oral traditions in the world are Whale's sacred province, as are all stories and lore.

WOLF -- Wolf is the Great Teacher.  Wolves are extremely social animals that live in the complex and stratified society of the pack.  Wolf is also the Pathfinder, for he/she goes solo for a time and then returns to the Pack with the new Medicine he/she has learned.  Wolf's greatest lessons lie in recognizing the balance that must exist between the needs of the self (for wolves are in their own way individualistic animals) and those of the community.  This Guide serves the interests of both without neglecting either.  Wolf teaches us to trust ourselves and brings much knowledge of ourselves that we have ignored, forgotten or never knew.  He/she has much to teach us two-leggeds about the meaning and value of community.  If you were to keep company with a pack of wolves, you would find a very strong sense of community and family, but also a strong individualistic urge.  Both have their place, and each adds strength to the other when properly honored, Wolf counsels.  This is a great gift of wisdom that this Teacher bestows.  Those who possess Wolf's Medicine are called to share what they have learned, spreading their ideas and wisdom with the world, ultimately making it a better place.  Wolf Medicine People know that both the teacher and student benefit greatly from such tutelage, each becoming more focused and wise.  They also know that the passing down of wisdom to future generations is essential, lest it be lost again.  Wolf also has much to teach about intuition and the developing of intuitive abilities.  As he/she bays and howls at Grandmother Moon, Wolf connects with ideas and abilities that lie just beyond the conscious, waking world.

WOLVERINE -- Wolverine is very much a loner and is the ferocious Great Warrior among the Guides.  His pure ferocity, tenacity and aggressiveness are truly startling.  You'd never guess this Guide is a member of the same family as Skunk and Otter!  Wolverine knows more of self-protection than any other Totem, and conveys this to his students, as well as others who need to learn how to protect themselves and not put off an aura of seeming weak and defenseless.  He counsels of how to achieve victory in just about anything, and shows us how far sheer willpower can take us.  Wolverine is not the easiest Guide to deal with, often being downright scary, but his lessons are invaluable.  Wolverine Medicine People are generally very easy going until they are angered -- let's just say you do not want to make them mad.  The properly channeled fury of Wolverine People makes them great warriors and protectors of the People, but they must be careful not to vent their anger in the wrong places, lest they become abusive bullies.

WOODPECKER -- Woodpecker teaches of life's rhythms in the way this Guide drums with his/her beak on tree bark looking for food.  He/she is also the Finder of the Hidden, for Woodpecker must search diligently for insect prey in the bark.  Thus this Guide also shares how to find people, aspects of ourselves, knowledge, ideas and even objects that we once enjoyed but have lost long before we ceased needing them.  Otherwise, I'm not very familiar with Woodpecker's Medicine, except that he's/she's somehow related to Grouse and that Guide's lessons.