THE BEAR

Stories of both myth and lore are famous with the bear. The bear has always been associated as a symbol of power. There has even been a constellation named for it, the Ursus Major, The Great Bear. Also, there is a lunar symbology as well and was associated with the goddess Diana, a goddess of the moon.

Although, it is thought that the bear goes into hibernation, this is not a complete truth. It would be considered more of a dream state, a slowing down, a winter's sleep. As a totem, the bear can teach you to draw upon all your inner sources of energy and essence, even those you were not aware. You should go into your own "soul's den", find your inner sanctum, your answers are waiting there. Bear medicine can teach you to go deep within so that your choices and decisions come from a position of power. The tree is an ancient and powerful symbol as the bear. It's a natural antenna, a link to the heavens from the earth. It basically represents knowledge. Bears are often associated with trees. As the bear teaches you to in and awaken the potentials within your soul, the tree serves as a reminder that we must bring what we awaken out into the world and then apply it.

Most bears are playful, both as adults and as cubs, especially the black bear. This is a reminder to those with the bear as their totem. You should keep the "cub" alive inside yourself. Climb a tree occasionally, if only to get a clear prospective. The grizzly, the brown bear, is basically a solitaire. Although known for its strength and ferocity, it is by nature not aggressive. But the polar bear has no fear. It is the most aggressive of all the bears and has no enemies except man.

All bears have a great fondness for honey. Honey is the natural sweetness of life. Found mainly in trees, this again reconfirms the association of the tree and the bear. This is again, a reminder for those with the bear as their totem, to go within to awaken the power. But to remember that only by bringing it out in the open and applying it will the honey of life be tasted Join the bear, journey to the quietness of your "cave" and hibernate in silence. Dream your dreams. Then own them. Use this strength to overcome your weakness and understand that both are necessary in your evolution. Find the joy in the silence. Allow the thoughts of confusion to be laid to rest. This is the strength of the bear. Then in strength you will be ready to discover the honey waiting in the tree of life.

This totem page is dedicated to Antek. We met   a few years ago, but have known each other for a much longer time. It has been an amazing experience to find this connection. For you, Antek, lieber Freund, with hopes of continuing this journey of knowledge together.

Thanks for stopping by. Please visit often.

You Are Listening To "Samhain"
By Ron Allen from the CD, "DreamCatcher".