The Indian needs no writings; words that are true sink deep into his heart, where they remain. He never forges them. *Four Guns *Lakota Elder

There is a great misconception some people have about the Native. There are many people that think Natives pray to animals and plants as a sort of god. The Native American Indian does not pray to the other parts of Creation, animals included, as some kind of god. They believe that we were all put here by the one and only Creator. The earth was here first, then the plants, animals, fish and birds were sent here. We humans were the last to arrive. We are all touched by the Great Spirit. As this is so, we all have a spark of the Creators energy in us. When we pray to the other parts of Creation- we are asking for their help. They do not have the predujices that we humans have managed to acquire. They were placed here by the Creator as a helper. We were all sent here to help each other . The animals know how to survive without using hatred or injustice. They know instintively how to heal themselves. Look at the great bear. When he is injured, he knows which plants to use mixed with mud, to place on his wounds and heal himself. This knowledge they are willing to show us if we will only stop and listen. When we get too wrapped up in our own idea of self importance, we lose the ability to have a open heart that hears. We fill up with the conception that "we", on our own can do something. This is so far from the truth. We are nothing without our Creator. It is His gifts that we use to help others. His gifts that enable us to hear the language of Earth and her inhabitants.

ANIMAL ENERGIES

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The Lakota have a story of a White Buffalo Calf Woman who brought them their sacred Chanupa. She taught them how to pray and have a right relationship with the Creator. To many tribes, the buffalo symbolizes abundance. It also  teaches to be grounded in all areas of your life. When you choose to follow the right path, and remember to give prayers of thatnks for all you do have, your path will be a straighter one. You should ask yourself if you are honoring the Creator and what you are seeking. Do you show gratitude for what you already have? The buffalo is also very protective of the young. Are you watching out for your young and family? Are you encircling those close to you with your love and protection?

The bear teaches us to awaken the power of the unconscience. Bear teaches you to go deep within (hibernation) and see what is true. It teaches this so you can make your decisions from a realistic viewpoint and with clarily. Even hiding out sometimes to reflect is good, you also must remember to come out of hibernaiton and act upon your insight though. Some people also believe that when the bear comes to you, whether in dreams or in the physical, it is offering you the Medicine Path.

The wolf teaches of strong family ties. They also teach you to "live by the rules". It is the true spirit of the free wilderness. They teach you to see who you are, to be confident in yourself. This way you do no need to tread on another to prove yourself. They teach you to use ritual to gain order and harmony within your life. Some tribes also believe that when the wolf shows up it is reminding you to not waste what you have. They teach you to make lasting and loving relationships. To trust those in your circle of family and friends.

The rabbit moves with hops and leaps. If the rabbit has come to you then this could indicate that your life is moving in leaps and bounds. The rabbit most visible during the dawn and dusk hours. Some Native tribes say that this time fo the day/night is the best time to connect with the spirits. Rabbits are prey to a great many other animals. Because of this they are gifted with a high fertility rate. They are seen as a sign of sexuality. They are good at quick movement and you should learn to do the same.

The leopard has a good instinct when it comes to hunting and stalking. If the leopard has come into your life you should pay attention to your gut feelings. We are taught from an early age to ignor our gut instincts, but you need to overcome this. The north is the direction for the leopard. You should also study this direction. Some say that if the leopard shows itself to you it is time to clear out the old ingrained habits and the demons within your mind. Realize that you have the strength to do this.

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All writings are © by Alaskan Angels and Roberta Wallace 1998. No copying in part or whole is permitted without written permission of owner.