Animal Spirits
Man-kind has communicated with the Creator through interaction with nature; the birds, the forest, the animals.... Many chose or were given symbolic "power animals" whose strength or character reflected the human character traits of the individuals claiming the "power" of that specific animal.
In today's society where so many of us are separated from our earthly roots by the inventions and practices of the modern world, discovering one's own Animal Spirits can be a wonderful way to reconnect with nature and its nurturing energies.
Respect is one of the major elements in discovering Animal Spirits. A seemingly lowly being like a clam deserves the same respect as the lofty appearing hawk. It's messages are different but every bit as worthwhile and valuable.
Let me say this: Every Human that has ever bonded with an Animal, and attempted to sympathize with that animal, has stepped forward in his own development. Further, by lending his own Human energies, sympathy and cooperation, he has assisted that Animal in the process of his own individuation.
As an example, it is like when your dog or cat can communicate with you - he/she wants food, affection, to go inside or outside, and you learn to recognize the needs of your animals. Your animal learns to understand key words... but can you understand "this" bark or "that" meow? (Some probably do, but I'm sure those will attest it was no easy process to learn.) Animals do have full and complete language, but it is at this time relegated to expression we are not yet trained to understand.
Animals are the main characters or play an important role in teaching the younger generation important life lessons. Some of these cultures have created a belief system, or zodiac, based on animal guides.
The horoscopes below are based on Native American beliefs. Due to the number of indigenous tribes, who did not all have the same beliefs, we have selected some of the more widely accepted zodiacs and totems.
March 21 to April 19 (Aries)
Hawk, Falcon, Wolf
The hawk is a messenger of insight, adaptability and openness. Hawk people aim to initiate and lead, and may be impulsive from time to time. They want to establish individuality while still being accepted by the group.
April 20 to May 20 (Taurus)
Elk, Beaver
The elk is a strong, handsome and proud animal who can be aggressive if challenged. The beaver is an industrious builder with unlimited patience. Elk people are very industrious and find security through possession. They are eager to discover and possess something which has lasting value.
May 21 to June 20 (Gemini)
Eagle, Deer
The eagle can see extraordinarily well, is very strong willed, and graceful. Eagle people are great observers, have great intuition and creativity. They try to bring things together and better them through creative actions
June 21 to July 21 (Cancer)
Salmon, Woodpecker, Flicker
Salmon strive to return home after a long journey. Salmon people are home-loving, giving and sensitive. They are also very imaginative and sometimes moody. Their goal in life is to live in harmony with the environment.
July 22 to August 21 (Leo)
Cougar, Salmon, Sturgeon
The cougar is swift, graceful, spontaneous, and determined. Cougar people make great leaders and are courageous, ambitious and determined to succeed. They want to find purpose in life and to dominate what they do best.
August 22 to September 21 (Virgo)
Owl, Bear
Owls are very observant and sensible. Owl people are intelligent, well spoken and discreet. Their eye for detail often makes them perfectionist. They must cultivate tolerance and optimism.
September 22 to October 22 (Libra)
Raven, Crow, Dove
The raven is intelligent, cleaver and mystical. Raven people are peace loving, idealistic and charming. They long for harmony in the community and must stay away from uncertainty and inconsistency.
October 23 to November 22 (Scorpio)
Snake, Eel
The snake is mysterious, intuitive and is the epitome of transformation. Snake people aim for satisfaction and thrive on praise. They require great self-discipline and will power to control their harsh natures.
November 23 to December 21 (Sagittarius)
Horse, Owl, Elk
The horse is a wise and strong animal which possesses great stamina. Horse people are determined, sincere and understanding. They are also inquisitive, generous and trustworthy.
December 22 to January 19 (Capricorn)
Bear, Goose
Bears are quiet, swift and very protective of their family. Bear people are cautious, independent and hardworking. They adapt well to new situations and value tradition over technology.
January 20 to February 18 (Aquarius)
Otter, Magpie
Otters are playful, prophetic animals. Otter people are creative, and logical. They have high ideals and tend to seek more from others than is reasonable. They seek the truth above all else.
February 19 to March 20 (Pisces)
Wolf, Cougar, Whale
The wolf is graceful, has initiative, and loves freedom. Wolf people are generally very trusting, and generous with deep feelings towards their loved ones. Their ultimate goal is to find and keep love in their life.
--Quotes--
"He who is cruel to animals becomes hard also in his dealings with men.We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals."
Live every day like theres no tomorrow!
"I do not believe that sheer suffering teaches. If suffering alone taught, all the world would be wise. To suffering must be added mourning, understanding, patience, love, openness and the willingness to remain vulnerable."
- Anne Morrow Lindbergh, American author.
