From ancient times the people of Mother Earth have sought visions and messages from Great Spirit. In the beginning, the Creator communicated with us through our interaction with nature. All of nature is connected at an unseen level. Animals, plants, and rocks all had lessons to teach us and messages to share. The messages helped us survive and provided us with direction, protection, compassion, and healing. The messages existed in all of Nature but were most predominant in the animal clan. We received the messages and learned the lessons of the animals by studying them and their environment. The animal’s message is the nature of the animal itself. For example, the message of eagle is about freedom, courage, focus, high ideals, vision, power and spirit; a time to take action, be direct, and move forward. It is a symbol of the Creator and a positive sign for those on the spiritual path. Animals have certain qualities and behavior that you will do well to adopt. Animals constantly teach you how you should behave or what you should do to succeed in your physical world. Another example is if you are thinking of quitting a project, or letting go of a business venture and you are suddenly invaded by ants, the message is to hang in there. Consider putting more energy into your work. Consult with others for support and new ideas. It is time for team strategy and cooperation. Be patient and don’t give up. The animals that you are most often drawn to, or fear the most also have something to teach you. Many times animals enter your life to help you overcome difficult transitions. Animals can help you learn what qualities you are most lacking. You need to listen and pay attention to the message of each animal. If you have a difficult time with self-knowledge, animals can tell you a great deal about yourself. The animals represent the sub-conscious mind. The animal’s strength and character also reflects human characteristics. First, learn the nature of the animal and then look at what part of your nature is most like that of the animal. The animals that you are attracted to, see in dreams, have encounters with, or collect as stuffed toys, pictures, and figurines can all give you very important information about yourself. Do you like to visit the Zoo, or wear animal tee shirts? When a particular animal appears in your life you can determine what the underlying message is. Become aware of the repeated appearance of some animals. Synchronistic occurrences teach you to pay attention to the hidden messages in everyday experiences. Become aware of repeated patterns or themes. Each animal has certain medicine powers to teach and knowledge to share. Each animal has its own method of overcoming the many challenges it has met in order to survive. We have always had an alliance with the animal clan. There are many methods of connecting and communicating with Spirit. If you listen and are receptive to its voice, Spirit will reveal its messages through the animals and nature. Connecting with a nature sign or animal totem, establishes a psychic link which helps you communicate in non-verbal terms. You can receive additional information by observing the animal’s natural characteristics and their environment. Pay attention and you will receive practical healing and helpful messages. The Great Spirit speaks to us constantly through Nature on many levels. You can learn to predict future experiences by observing Nature and it varied expressions. In order to read signs and symbols you must study your environment and the animals. Get familiar with the birds, insects, animals, colors, odors, sounds and shapes of your environment. Is there something in particular that stands out to you? If you are drawn to it, you may be sure that it has a message for you. Observe your feelings and behavior in specific areas. Be alert to changes and mood shifts. In order to understand the messages and their significance, pay attention. Once you are able to interpret the messages, you will be able to prepare for future experiences. *Please note: an animal can be a mammal, bird, fish, insect or reptile. Be sure and look for “Your nine animal totems and how to identify them” in October’s issue of Nature Signs.
Animal Totems and Their Messages by Janét Bowerman What animals are your guides? Read about it in Bellesprit Magazine goo.gl/v93Rjzine — BellespritMagazine (@BellespritMagaz) September 8, 2012]]>