Power Animals

Part 1

The concept of a Power Animal is universal to all cultures. Tribal cultures will recognize a Totem for the tribe, one for the clan one belongs to, and one for the family that one is born into. Native American Indians spirituality is currently the most well known for there totem animal beliefs. Yet all indigenous peoples from all different tribes, cultures and lands utilize the belief in the power of totems. All believe in the ability to connect with the Earth and the animals that grace the Earth. It is interesting to note that despite the differences in lands and cultures the similarities and descriptions of animals were uncanny. In the United States, and in other countries, the Tribal and Clan Totem still exists, although it is thought of in a slightly different manner.

There are also totems for our adopted cultures, such as clubs or societies, which we may belong to, such as the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the Lions Club.

Even Christianity, the prevalent religion of this country, has maintained two Totem animals, these being the Fish and the Lamb. Specialized Totems are also seen in organized sports, their names being reflected in the team names. Example: Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Falcons

The next type of Power Animal or Totem is that which is personal for the individual. These Totems are protective spirits that help us in our everyday life. Everyone has such a Totem. Even today most parents give a special protective Power Animal to their children and tell the child that that Power Animal will protect it over night. They don't realize that is what they are doing when they give a teddy bear to their little one.

We often unconsciously recognize the Power Animal affecting someone, and use terms that give away our unconscious recognition.

Our heavens/zodiac include animal references (Leo - Scorpio - Cancer - Taurus).

A totem or power animal is a very important and symbolic object used by a person to get in touch with certain characteristics of the animal. You may have a few or many animal guides throughout your life. An animal may come into your life for just a short time then is replaced by another. These totems may appear to guide you to a certain path or to bring understanding to you depending upon where your life journey is headed. Your totem animal will provide protection, guidance, wisdom and insight to bringing harmony to your physical and spiritual selves. Each animal has its own special power and message, for each has its own special power and skill. When you feel a connection to a totem animal, accept them; make them feel welcome in your life. Bring them into your environment through meditation, pictures or images, or simply your daily thoughts and prayers. A totem animal may help guide you to reconnection with Mother Earth and nature.

Additional Information: Power Animals are usually a reflection of your deepest self and also represent qualities which you need in this world, but which are often hidden or obscured. A mistake that people often make is to be dissatisfied when they find that their Power Animal is some non-ferocious animal like a mouse. We tend to think that a mouse is not very powerful - that it is meek and afraid. What they forget is that spirits are not limited to physical reality and that size is irrelevant. Your Power Animal may be a tiny mouse, but in times of need this mouse can and will change its size and deportment to that which is appropriate to the occasion.

There is nothing weak of meek about a 500-foot tall mouse! Your personal Power Animal (as opposed to your family, clan, or tribal spirit) may change several times in your lifetime, depending upon your specific needs. If you are dispirited, your animal is far away from you and needs to be brought back, or a replacement found.

When you make your first exploratory journey you are likely to encounter spirits which may represent themselves as being your Totem or Power Animal. If you are already aware of your spirit that spirit may greet you and give you additional power.

All mammals and birds are positive spirits. Any positive spirit may be your Power Animal. Your Power Animal may also be a mythical animal, such as a unicorn or Pegasus, or even one which does not exist in myth or legend.