Totem and Animal Spirits Discussions - Temple Illuminatus2024-03-29T06:52:32Zhttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/groups/group/forum?groupUrl=totem-and-animal-spirits&feed=yes&xn_auth=noThe Coyote and the Hawktag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2023-09-09:6363372:Topic:36379192023-09-09T03:40:27.022ZBill Walkerhttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/BillWalker
<p align="left" class="western"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><strong>I've always wondered what animals were my spiritual totems, about ten years ago I'm pretty sure spirit wanted to show me.</strong></font></font></font></em></span></p>
<p align="left" class="western"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><strong> I worked the night shift and was on my way…</strong></font></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><strong>I've always wondered what animals were my spiritual totems, about ten years ago I'm pretty sure spirit wanted to show me.</strong></font></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><strong> I worked the night shift and was on my way home but my mind was thinking about the first nations of America and how they discovered what animals might be there spirit totems? The area that I live in was once very much native lands and still has a very strong first nations spiritual attachment that runs through the area. As I was driving along and as the sun was just rising I slammed on the breaks because out of the corner of my eye I saw a coyote bolt from the underbrush just ahead of my car and cross the road. I don't think I would have hit him but it was a close call.</strong></font></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><strong> After my heart beat slowed down a bit I started wondering if it was a sign. The answer lay just a couple of miles ahead of me.</strong></font></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><b> I was coming up on a bridge over the Nooksack River when I thought I saw something scurry across the road just up ahead but then suddenly a hawk flew right in my cars path and grabbed what turned out to be a mouse. As the hawk lifted off the pavement with his breakfast I don't think he was even aware of the car (me) speeding directly at him. </b></font></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><strong> As I hit the breaks the hawk adjusted his flight which took him only a few feet in front of my </strong></font></font></font><font color="#454545"><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><b>windshield. I don't know who was more surprised me, the hawk, or the mouse who was probably thinking he was a goner no matter what happened?</b></font></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><b><font color="#454545"> At any rate. I've seen coyotes, which are mostly nocturnal, and hawks many times since. I'm guessing that my totem animal spirits are in fact coyotes and hawks! I wonder if I should include mice in that group as well?</font></b></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><b><font color="#454545">by</font></b></font></font></em></span></p>
<p class="western" align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><em><font face="Tahoma, Geneva"><font size="2"><b><font color="#454545">Bill Walker</font></b></font></font></em></span></p> Wild Birds Delivering a Messagetag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2023-07-13:6363372:Topic:36359972023-07-13T01:15:09.605ZBill Walkerhttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/BillWalker
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><strong>Three quick stories.</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><strong> I was sitting in a library parking lot using their free wifi. I had the drivers side window open with my left arm resting on it. When all of the sudden a wild yellow bellied finch decided to land on the drivers side mirror.</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> I found this amusing as he/she was…</b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><strong>Three quick stories.</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><strong> I was sitting in a library parking lot using their free wifi. I had the drivers side window open with my left arm resting on it. When all of the sudden a wild yellow bellied finch decided to land on the drivers side mirror.</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> I found this amusing as he/she was close enough that I could have reached out and stroked his tummy. That's when this bird started in with this song that was very much pointed at me. The only thing I could imagine is that I had been thinking about my mother, now deceased, and figured that this was her way of letting me know she had heard my thoughts. And that was very reassuring.</b></em></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> On another occasion I was sitting at the local elementary school next to their well house in the shade. At times I go there to meditate and talk to spirit when school is not in session.</b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> This time, I had fallen into a deep trance. There was literally nothing but my blank consciousness in a dark peaceful space. Then suddenly a small bird, probably a sparrow, landed on my arm.</b> <span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Unfortunately</b></span><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> this startled me and I jumped scaring my little friend into flight.</b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> I was</b> <span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>immediately</b></span><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> disappointed in myself for not being able to hold the trance and accepting that this bird had had no fear in approaching and landing on me,</b></em></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> And finally, I was at a McDonalds, I don't eat there very often, having lunch in my car on a cold damp winter day. I had just pulled my order of French Fries out of the bag when a sparrow landed on my windshield wiper blade on the drivers side right in front of me.</b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> This sparrow kept looking first at me and then at the French Fries. It was so obvious what he was saying and what he wanted. I opened my window and broke off a piece of a fry, blew on it, and put it on the windshield wiper blade trying not to scare him off. As soon as I pulled my arm in he hopped over took the fry and was off.</b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> I felt happy that he had accepted my offering and I started to eat. About two minutes later here he came again landing on the windshield wiper blade. This time I put my arm all the way out as far as I could trying to see if he would take the French Fry straight out of my fingers. Which he had no problem with that at all before flying off again.</b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> I waited to see if he would come back a third time but he didn't. I guess he was full after two fries. I was amazed though at how smart this bird was at knowing just how to communicate that he wanted a French Fry through the front window of a car. And that made me wonder if he did this on a regular basis? </b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><b style="font-size: 12pt;"> I have eaten at that McDonalds a couple of times since over the years but I have never experienced his return to my disappointment!</b></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em><strong> </strong></em></span></p> Totem Animalstag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2021-11-16:6363372:Topic:36055852021-11-16T02:51:17.719ZMystic Wolfhttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/DonPerndergast
<p><strong>Totem Animals 11-15-2021</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We call on totem animals, spirit guides and guardian angels when we need extra help</p>
<p>they provide different kinds of help so we may use all or only one of these.<br></br> Totem animals are power and energy we can draw upon when we need certain specific energies for magick or a particular problem.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We may invoke the energy of a lion if we needed to be powerful and in control of a situation a spider may be for…</p>
<p><strong>Totem Animals 11-15-2021</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We call on totem animals, spirit guides and guardian angels when we need extra help</p>
<p>they provide different kinds of help so we may use all or only one of these.<br/> Totem animals are power and energy we can draw upon when we need certain specific energies for magick or a particular problem.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We may invoke the energy of a lion if we needed to be powerful and in control of a situation a spider may be for dexterity sometimes you may use your totem animals in meditation or path workings and other times you may evoke their energy in spell work<br/> another way may be using totem animals as astral familiars.</p>
<p><br/> Spirit guides, and angels help us make decisions and guide us towards our destiny.<br/> We may ask angels to guide us in our work and our destiny's.</p>
<p>Their influence is more subtle than a spirit guide who can often be connected to psychically. We may envisage our spirit guide and hear their voices our angelic guardians often do not show themselves to us.</p>
<p><strong>Totem Animals<br/></strong> Native American and Celtic shamanistic beliefs are strong on animal symbols. <br/> These symbols are referred to as "totem animals" or "power animals."<br/> You'll often hear the two referred to synonymous, but those that follow traditional Native beliefs explain that a totem animal is one that is with you for life, <br/> often an animal with whom you share a connection, either through interest in the animal or your resemblance to or shared characteristics of the animal in question.</p>
<p><strong>A power animal or spirit animal</strong> is a spirit in animal form that comes through with a specific lesson for you, and will change throughout the course of your life.<br/> Witches cannot always work with physical familiars due to many reasons.<br/> Perhaps the most common one will be space limitation.</p>
<p>Let's face it, who can keep a tiger in his/her house? Siegfried and Roy do NOT count!<br/> Therefore, many witches work with their totem animals in the astral.<br/> Totems are not specific animals but mystical powers.</p>
<p>Totem animals are sought in the astral world.</p>
<p><br/> Witches choose those power animals that closely represent their higher selves. In other words, power animals are chosen by their affinity to the witch.<br/> Power animals are used for specific purposes too.</p>
<p><br/> For example, a witch may choose the animal that lends to a specific kind of magick.<br/> Maybe the spell needs some "medicine" or energy from the Snake.</p>
<p>Some animals are associated with the quarters. Sometimes these energies are activated with the quarter calls.</p>
<p><br/> Totem animals are great advisers. So, if you are confused about something, call the animal.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Our personality has many facets, so you're likely to have more than one power animal. However, I suggest that you begin to work with one power animal at the time.<br/> Visit the animal in the astral world and "talk" to it for a while. Once you get aquatinted with that one, move to the next one.</p>
<p><br/> I think most of you have an immediate affinity with at least one particular animal and whilst I talk about this are thinking about your animal.</p>
<p>Bear in mind that totem animals may come and go out of your life as you grow. <br/> So do not feel bad if you see the Bear spirit disappear from your life, and instead the Fox spirit appears.</p>
<p><br/> There are those power animals that might stay with you for the rest of your life, but others may come and go as need be.<br/> Welcome those that come to you for the new experiences they will bring into your life. Bless and thanks those that go.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you would like to get in touch with your own totem animals, here are a couple of methods you can try.<br/> I've had the best success with dreams, though this may be in part thanks to experimentation with lucid dreaming in the past. </p>
<p><br/> If you want to try using dreams as your medium, you might want to consider burning some scented candles or oils in the bedroom before turning in for the night (lavender and lilac are great for helping you to open up psychically). <br/> Clear your mind of the day's "chatter" (take several deep breaths, or some meditation techniques can be found here).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Repeat the following statement: "I am open to communication with my spirit guides, and would like them to come to me in my dreams. I will remember these dreams in the morning."</p>
<p><br/> Another means you can try is entering a meditative state. Find a comfortable chair in a quiet place with no interruptions, barricade yourself in, and do the following:<br/> Close your eyes</p>
<p>Take several deep, relaxing breaths, clearing your mind of your thoughts<br/> Once you've reached a relaxed state, imagine a natural setting that is calming and comforting to you: an ocean beach, a meadow in summer, a forest clearing in the rain, a flower garden, a grassy hillside or wherever the animal you wish to contact may reside.<br/> Imagine a seat in the middle of your area<br/> approach the seat and sit down</p>
<p>Send a thought out that you would like to meet your totem animal<br/> Wait for the animal to approach, and let it sit or lie down if that is what it wants to do<br/> Ask his or her name, and what he or she is here to teach you.<br/> If this is your first attempt, keep this meeting brief, thank your animal for coming, and slowly bring your consciousness back to the room in which you're seated.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Another means you can use to establish a more rudimentary communication for your totem animal just to let you know that they're present, to receive confirmation that you're on the right path, or to let you know that you need to pay special attention at a particular moment is to pick a symbol, something specific and that you're not inclined to see every day, such as a pen with a red barrel, a purple flower, or a pair of dice.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Be on the lookout for your symbol, and if you see it, know that your totem is there with you. I find it best to ask to see the animal in unusual places as my sign.<br/> Note that as your totem animal may not appear really clearly to you at first, you'll want to check various similar animal types (alligator vs. crocodile, for example) before assuming that it's a specific one.</p>
<p><br/> Often you can confuse two different animals for example a cheetah and a leopard<br/> which have different energies<br/> Also be aware that some animals may have specific meaning to you other than what is in the list.</p>
<p>For example, some people have different views on rats...some keep them as pets, others detest them.</p>
<p><br/> This list is not meant to supersede your own symbolic meanings, but rather instead to supplement it. Always go with your own instincts.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Guardians<br/></strong> Everyone has a guardian this is not to be confused with your spirit guide or guardian angel. </p>
<p>A Guardian guards you from psychic attack or possession.</p>
<p>They are especially strong in young spirits or those who haven't been reincarnated many times older spirits are able to care more for their own psychic well-being.<br/> Often when people first try to contact their spirit guide, they first come across their guardian.</p>
<p><br/> The guardian is often scary looking, ugly, or frightening in some other way. They are not going to hurt you, but are protecting you.<br/> If during meditation you come across someone who fits this bill, do not be afraid. They are caring for you. There looks are meant to scare away possible attackers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Spirit Guides</strong></p>
<p>These entities that are known by many names, Spirit Guides, Guides, Helpers or Spirit Helpers. They are all of these things. <br/> I have heard them called "controls" or "spirit controls". I don't like these names as they do not in any way try to control you.</p>
<p> No, they will not make your decisions for you. They feel that this is your life and that you must live in it.<br/> They will offer their opinions and advice if you ask for it, but they won't tell you what to do. It is your life and you must decide how to live it.<br/> They are souls or spirits that have lived many lifetimes and have gained much wisdom. They are there to help and assist you and are your friends, in fact they are the best friends that you have.<br/> They do truly love you and would never do anything to harm you in any way. <br/> And even though you may not consciously know it at this time, you already know them. You picked them to help you before you were born and they agreed to be your helpers.</p>
<p><br/> What is the difference between an angel and a Spirit Guide?</p>
<p>Well, in most religions an angel is a spirit that has never lived a human life, rather acts as a messenger or worker of the Divine. </p>
<p><br/> <strong>Spirit Guides</strong> have lived many lifetimes and by doing so have gained much wisdom.</p>
<p>They also often act as messengers or workers of the Divine. Percentage-wise, there are very few angels that have not lived physical lives.</p>
<p>I believe that angels are very like faeries in some ways non-human<br/> but that spirit guides are like human angels.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Spirit Guides are entities who have chosen to aid others on the path to spiritual enlightenment as we are about to ascend to higher light - the evolution of consciousness - our natural state of being. You are frequency. Spirit guides are higher frequency. It's like turning on a television or radio - one need only adjust the station to the matching frequency to connect.</p>
<p><br/> Connection is usually telepathic unless your spirit guide uses some form of telekinesis to move objects or manifest objects to reinforce their connection with you. any spirit guides have had incarnations on the physical plane, as well as other realms. They, like yourself, exist multi dimensionally.</p>
<p><br/> Spirit guides are often your polar opposite - the other part of your soul which remains on the other side in higher frequency as your soul experiences in third dimension. hat may physically appear to you in humanoid form so you mind can conceptualize them better.</p>
<p><br/> Spirit Guides sometimes show up as ectoplasmic forms - in photos or for you to see with your own eyes.<br/> We all have at least one spirit guide. They vary in number.</p>
<p>Spirit guides 'speak' to you in many ways. Sometimes they are the little voice you hear in your head - your thoughts.<br/> Often times they speak to you in dream state, meditation, altered states of consciousness, through the synchronicity things that occur in your life, thought, art, music, dance, or acting.</p>
<p>Synchronicity, in general, are experiences created by your soul to bring you into greater awareness of what is occurring in your life.<br/> We have all had them<br/> hearing a song that expresses our feelings at a particular time<br/> something happening that makes us feel we are being cared for in the spirit realm<br/> If you meet someone by accident - it is because your soul and theirs has made a decision to meet. <br/> Everything is part of a giant web - sacred geometric blueprint.<br/> We are more aware of meeting them when we sleep. <br/> At that time, we remove our consciousness from third dimension - moving to faster moving frequency - faster than the speed of light to connect with that other realm of existence.<br/> It is here that we work with our spirit guides and plan what we will do in the physical realms when we return to 'wakefulness' place our conscious mind back in our physical bodies - when we get up. </p>
<p><br/> Some see dream time as Real Time - as that is where the true decisions are made.<br/> As you'll no doubt hear your guide in your own voice or as part of your thoughts, it's important not to dismiss this as your imagination. </p>
<p><br/> The more you communicate with your guides, the easier it will be to separate and distinguish their messages from your own thought-traffic. <br/> Pay special attention at times when you're in a relaxed, slightly-distracted state, such as daydreaming, meditating, or driving.<br/> You can contact your guides in similar ways to contacting your power animals,<br/></p>
<p><strong>Listening and Viewing<br/> Telepathic communication</strong> with spirit is called clairaudience which is communication by thought form.</p>
<p><br/> <strong>Clairvoyance</strong> - communication by imagery on the screen in behind your forehead <br/> like a flash back or for the more advanced - images in front of you or in your mind.<br/> They may be accompanied by physical sensations such as:<br/> pressure on top of your head. This is the opening of the crown chakra.<br/> a sensation on the left side of the body or face. This is the right side of the brain - the intuitive side - opening.<br/> Sit down in a quiet place. You do not have to prepare as you would for meditation.</p>
<p>You may do this with your eyes open or closed - whatever helps you focus more easily. Today you are going to listen to your thoughts<br/> Think Hello! <br/> Relax and allow the answer to come naturally. <br/> You should hear a thought message with an affirmative answer.</p>
<p>We are going to test this by asking 'yes/no questions' that are not personal. <br/> Think - Is it sunny today? You should hear the answer. Is today Sunday?<br/> Continue with one or two more non-personal questions that can answered with Yes or No. You are adjusting your brain to 'listening' for messages.</p>
<p>their role is very similar, to watch over, care for and advise you whenever you need it and in whatever way they can.<br/> They provide a sensation of comfort when you are sad or bereaved, guidance when you are troubled and are someone, we can rely upon for good advice should we choose to listen to them.</p> Rattag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2020-11-20:6363372:Topic:35506442020-11-20T21:25:37.358ZSunKathttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/SunKat
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199175699?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199175699?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="400"></img></a> If you have the energies of the rat spirit animal, you are a survivor. The rat symbolism in you allows you to work hard to have everything you need, and fight for your right to have it.</p>
<p>In a very insecure and aggressive world, you can find ways to survive, adapt, and flourish. You are proof that looks can be deceiving, and that size does not…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199175699?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199175699?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="400" class="align-right"/></a>If you have the energies of the rat spirit animal, you are a survivor. The rat symbolism in you allows you to work hard to have everything you need, and fight for your right to have it.</p>
<p>In a very insecure and aggressive world, you can find ways to survive, adapt, and flourish. You are proof that looks can be deceiving, and that size does not matter!</p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 12pt;"><span id="common-rat-spirit-animal-meanings"><strong>Common Rat Spirit Animal Meanings</strong></span></span></h2>
<p>The rat has long been considered a pest, always popping up unannounced, scurrying in their little feet as they steal food.</p>
<p>They are willing to put their lives on the line just to have something to eat, which makes them brave, adventurous, and even reckless.</p>
<p>The meaning of the rat represents the strength that you possess, and adaptability you can demonstrate when push comes to shove.</p>
<p>When you have the rat totem, you are not afraid to get your hands dirty to do what needs to be done and to accomplish your goals.</p>
<p>The harsh reality of life does not affect your drive to succeed. If anything, it just pushes you to try harder.</p>
<p>You have the stealth to accomplish your mission, and you know how to defend yourself in tight situations.</p>
<p>Your gift of foresight also helps you plan for the unexpected, so don’t worry too much and just enjoy life each day.</p>
<p>Another rat symbolism that you should take note of is letting go and moving on. When the rat spirit animal appears to you, you have things in your life that are keeping you from reaching the stars.</p>
<p>There are certain aspects of your life that are causing you pain and disappointment, so now is the time to start removing the clutter.</p>
<p>Once you start doing so, you will be surprised at the amount of space you have in your life for other things!</p>
<p>The rat meaning also indicates wealth, abundance, and fertility, <a href="https://trustedpsychicmediums.com/spirit-animals/rabbit-spirit-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>similar to the rabbit meaning.</strong></a> Don’t fear the rat spirit animal because this symbolizes an abundant period that will soon take place!</p>
<h3><span id="here-is-why-the-rat-spirit-animal-is-lucky-for-some"><strong>Here is why the Rat Spirit animal is Lucky for some…</strong></span></h3>
<p>If your rat totem scurries its way into your life, it is telling you to be more assertive in areas of your life that you have not yet explored. This is a good sign that your life is about to change for the better!</p>
<p>The meaning of the rat encourages you to challenge yourself and stop being scared.</p>
<p>This is a new beginning for you, so make sure to let go of all your inhibitions and release yourself from the anchors of your past.</p>
<p>If you will break down the rat meaning, look at the clutter around you because it’s time for some spring cleaning!</p>
<p>Throw, sell, or give away things that you no longer need and experience the change in the energies around you.</p>
<p>This also applies to thoughts and emotions that are no longer healthy for you. Get rid of them and clear up space so that <a href="http://www.melyssagriffin.com/15-tips-for-being-positive/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>new and positive energies will start to flow!</strong></a></p>
<h3><span id="does-seeing-a-rat-mean-love-is-coming"><strong>Does seeing a Rat mean Love is coming?</strong></span></h3>
<p>The rat spirit animal is a creature of great intelligence. We all can use this when it comes to love and relationships, so this indicates you will be wiser and more careful this time around.</p>
<p>Your experience with love may not be so great, but don’t let this be the reason for you to completely shut it out.</p>
<p>Turn the heartache and the tears to lessons, and use them to receive the love that you truly deserve.</p>
<h3><span id="positive-traits-of-the-rat-spirit-animal"><strong>Positive Traits of the Rat Spirit Animal</strong></span></h3>
<p>When you journey through life with your rat totem, it means that you are resourceful and can make the best of what you have.</p>
<p>You adapt well to any kind of environment and you can blend in with different kinds of people.</p>
<p>You are easygoing and happy by nature, but you are also honest, frank, and opinionated. You can defend yourself in any situation and overcome any challenge.</p>
<p>Like the rat spirit animal, you are smooth and sharp, especially when it comes to business opportunities and money matters. You have the gift of insight and you know how to use it to get ahead.</p>
<p>You wear your heart on your sleeve but you exercise restraint. You give out good advice and are a good teacher of life because you have a lot of lessons to teach as well.</p>
<p>You are easy to get along with and a totally lovable person. You are cooperative when it comes to group efforts and endeavors, and a real team player with success as a goal.</p>
<h3><span id="negative-traits-of-the-rat-spirit-animal"><strong>Negative Traits of the Rat Spirit Animal</strong></span></h3>
<p>Like the rat symbolism, you hold on to everything you’ve got until people see you as a selfish person. It’s your desire to keep everything that you see and take every chance you can get.</p>
<p>You can be greedy and insensitive to other people’s needs. The rat meaning in your life personifies your tendencies to look out for yourself first and hurt anyone who will get in your way.</p>
<h3><span id="call-on-your-rat-spirit-animal-when"><strong>Call on your Rat Spirit Animal when:</strong></span></h3>
<ul>
<li>You have a problem that you don’t know how to resolve.</li>
<li>Sometimes the most obvious solutions to your problems are staring you right in the face, you’re just too preoccupied to notice. It will help you if you can just focus on the problem and not be affected by your emotions.</li>
<li>You need to start letting go.</li>
<li>When the burden is heavy, there’s no harm in putting it down and taking a rest. Furthermore, you will find it’s easier to just let go of all that’s pulling you back altogether.</li>
<li>You need to find a way to survive.</li>
</ul>
<p>Be inspired by the plight of your rat totem and know that you can survive whatever life throws at you. Remember that you are so much bigger than your problems!</p>
<h3>3 Unusual Facts About Rat Symbolism</h3>
<p>The rat does tend to get a bad press, but that is not going to then mean that you have to avoid bringing the rat spirit animal into your life or embracing rat symbolism.</p>
<p>Instead, it can certainly have a far more positive outcome than you may have previously imagined, but then you have to be aware of the way in which you can use the powers of this spirit animal to your advantage.</p>
<p>To make life easier, we can look at several key facts that could change your opinion of things.</p>
<p><strong>1. You can be brave but also reckless.</strong></p>
<p>A rat will risk everything in order to get a meal, so it certainly has a bravery about it, and that is something that rat symbolism is going to be big on.</p>
<p>Furthermore, you need to be aware that this can then easily transcend into you being reckless, so you have to be clear as to where there is a line that you are just not willing to cross at any point.</p>
<p>Courage is to be admired, but when it falls over into stupidity, then that is a completely different matter.</p>
<p><strong>2. You have the power of adaptability as well as strength.</strong></p>
<p>Rat symbolism also indicates that you have a real sense of strength within your own self and abilities as well as being able to adapt to scenarios without stressing out about it all.</p>
<p>This does then mean that life becomes a whole lot easier as you have the confidence and faith in your own self to deliver on whatever it is that you promise.</p>
<p>Being able to adapt to situations will also mean you are likely to go ahead and make progress where you may have previously been stuck.</p>
<p>You no longer have to just follow the herd as you know you can handle anything that is thrown at you.</p>
<p><strong>3. You have the gift of foresight.</strong></p>
<p>Finally, you do have the gift of foresight, and that is something that is very powerful in the world.</p>
<p>You can see where there may be problems lying ahead and can then take evasive action to make sure that it does not infringe on your ability to make progress.</p>
<p>Foresight can help you to avoid danger and being caught up in things that you would like to avoid, so you need to be prepared to make full use of it once you realise that you have that ability.</p>
<p>A rat can predict when something is not quite right and that it has to change its approach, so you would do well to learn from it in this way.</p>
<p>Ultimately, rat symbolism is more about being brave in order to survive and accept that you do have the ability to change your approach should life depend on it.</p>
<p>Being able to accurately predict problems makes the entire path so much smoother than you thought possible, and at the end of the day if you can reach your end goals without encountering too many obstacles, then life will indeed feel substantially better.</p>
<h3><span id="my-final-thoughts-on-the-rat-spirit-animal-and-its-symbolism"><strong>My final thoughts on the Rat Spirit Animal and its Symbolism</strong></span></h3>
<p>If the rat spirit animal has come to you, it’s to remind you that you may have bad habits that involve wasteful consumption.</p>
<p>It’s time to change these bad habits and make something good out of something you think is a waste of time.</p>
<p>Learn to be more giving, and share what you can when you can. Always offer a kind gesture and you will receive the blessings a hundredfold.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em><a href="https://trustedpsychicmediums.com/spirit-animals/rat-spirit-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://trustedpsychicmediums.com/spirit-animals/rat-spirit-animal/</a></em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p> Nightingaletag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2020-11-20:6363372:Topic:35505642020-11-20T21:23:46.288ZSunKathttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/SunKat
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199042854?profile=RESIZE_584x"><img alt="8199042854?profile=RESIZE_584x" class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199042854?profile=RESIZE_584x" width="550"></img></a></p>
<p>Nightingale is a small passerine bird that was initially classified as thrush family member but it is now considered to be an old world flycatcher.</p>
<p>It also belongs to chats species which is a more terrestrial species.</p>
<p>They are slightly larger than the European robin. They are mainly brown above but their tails are reddish in colour and buff white…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199042854?profile=RESIZE_584x"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199042854?profile=RESIZE_584x" alt="8199042854?profile=RESIZE_584x" width="550"/></a></p>
<p>Nightingale is a small passerine bird that was initially classified as thrush family member but it is now considered to be an old world flycatcher.</p>
<p>It also belongs to chats species which is a more terrestrial species.</p>
<p>They are slightly larger than the European robin. They are mainly brown above but their tails are reddish in colour and buff white bellow.</p>
<p>They are majorly found in Europe and south Asia although some can be traced to Americas. They have the name nightingale because they usually sing at night and even during the day. They like to sing a lot.</p>
<div class="google-auto-placed ap_container"><p>It is an important symbol for the poets from a variety of ages. For instance, Shakespeare compared his love poetry to the song of nightingale.</p>
<p>Those who have the power of nightingale are very poetic and they love music. They express themselves through songs and poetry. Poetry is a unique way of expressing information to the audience. It is a way of educating, informing and entertaining your target audience. Some information is best passed through poets or songs rather than direct confrontation with the information. This is because as the audience get entertained through the song, they also get information that you have put across for them.</p>
<p>Nightingale’s wisdom also include<strong>: using vibration energy to see in a shadow, using song properly in healing, use of song in moving through fear, connection with the moon.</strong></p>
<p>Songs are used as a way of healing to our souls and hearts. Those who feel depressed can listen to a song and then they get motivated and they become lively. Music creates a lively environment even to those who are bored and discouraged. Music heals the wounds in our lives and soothes our spirit. If you feel hurt and you start listening to encouraging and motivational songs, you get healed fast than someone who don’t listen to songs.</p>
<p>Music is very emotional and it tends to change our emotions depending on the kind of music we listen to. Just try to listen to given kind of music and you will realise what am talking about. When you listen to love music, you get emotions related to love. You start feeling the love. The same applies to spiritual songs. When you listen to them, you get spiritual and you move higher and higher in the spirit. When you are discouraged, you listen to encouraging songs and you get encouragement.</p>
<p>Nightingale also teaches us that we can use songs to move through fear in life, in our surrounding and from our enemies. They sing at night when it is dark. Night is always associated with danger because of the darkness at night. When they sing at night they scare away the enemies and they drive away fear as they sing. We should also learn to love singing so we can always drive away fear through our songs. When we listen to music, we also drive away fear. Some songs for instance, the war songs are meant to give us a strong spirit that can strengthen our heart and makes us gain power and strong spirit. We need the spirit of nightingale to thrive through fear by singing and listening to sweet encouraging war songs.</p>
<p>They also portray the connection to the moon. This is because of their sight that is meant to work even effectively at night. The moon improvises the sun. When there is sun during the day, the moon comes at night. Those who have nightingale power are very active at night more than during the day.</p>
<h3>Nightingale shows up as a spirit guide when:</h3>
<ul>
<li>You need energy to see some invisible things.</li>
<li>You need music to provide healing.</li>
<li>You have some fear.</li>
<li>You need to be very active.</li>
<li>To need to overcome your fear.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Call on Nightingale as a spirit guide when:</h3>
<ul>
<li>You need healing.</li>
<li>You need to be emotionally stable.</li>
<li>You feel hurt.</li>
<li>You need to remain active even at night.</li>
<li>You feel discouraged.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em><a href="https://www.auntyflo.com/magic/nightingale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.auntyflo.com/magic/nightingale</a></em></span></p>
</div> Chickentag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2020-11-20:6363372:Topic:35506392020-11-20T21:08:44.530ZSunKathttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/SunKat
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199137894?profile=RESIZE_584x" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199137894?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="400"></img></a> Most cultures regard the chicken spirit animal as a sign of enlightenment and illumination.</p>
<p>The chicken symbolism is vibrant and diverse, and it has a lot to do with demonstrating your brilliance and sharing different aspects of your personality with the world.</p>
<p>When the chicken spirit animal struts in your life, it’s time to celebrate your…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199137894?profile=RESIZE_584x" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199137894?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="400" class="align-right"/></a>Most cultures regard the chicken spirit animal as a sign of enlightenment and illumination.</p>
<p>The chicken symbolism is vibrant and diverse, and it has a lot to do with demonstrating your brilliance and sharing different aspects of your personality with the world.</p>
<p>When the chicken spirit animal struts in your life, it’s time to celebrate your individuality and uniqueness. Go out there and be ready to rise and shine!</p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 12pt;"><span id="common-chicken-spirit-animal-meanings">Common Chicken Spirit Animal Meanings</span></span></h2>
<p>If you want to know the meaning of the chicken spirit animal, it’s about the power of your voice. It’s about hearing and heeding your inner voice!</p>
<p><a href="https://trustedpsychicmediums.com/spirit-animals/snake-spirit-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Just like a snake spirit animal</strong></a>, the chicken totem appears to you because you need to speak up about something that’s been bothering you for a while.</p>
<p>You need to let your voice be heard, otherwise, you’ll be carrying this burden around forever.</p>
<p>The chicken symbolism urges you to listen to what your inner voices are telling you because this will be for your own good.</p>
<p>You may feel that there’s not a lot of people you can trust, but you can always trust your intuition!</p>
<p>The chicken (<a href="http://trustedpsychicmediums.com/spirit-animals/pelican-spirit-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>like the Pelican</strong></a>) meaning is also about protecting the family and the community.</p>
<p>When you see the chicken spirit animal, there may be dangers lurking in the corner, and you need to do what you can to make sure your loved ones are safe.</p>
<p>Do your part to ensure that no harm will come to you and others. Be more active and vigilant, and don’t allow yourself to just become a bystander who will just wait for somebody else to do something.</p>
<p>The chicken symbolism encourages you to be a more involved member of the community. Look out for one another and be ready to extend a helping hand whenever, wherever!</p>
<p>Another chicken meaning that you should take note of is understanding of the human language and recognizing the answers that seem to escape others.</p>
<p>You have the gift of discernment, and this gives you the wisdom to say or do the right thing.</p>
<p>Use your voice for the greater good. <a href="http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2007/08/14/top-24-tips-for-making-your-self-confidence-soar/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Let your voice give you the confidence</strong></a>, inspiration, and candor to do all the things that you want to do.</p>
<h3><span id="if-your-spirit-animal-is-the-chicken-read-this-carefully" style="font-size: 12pt;">If Your Spirit Animal is the Chicken, read this carefully…</span></h3>
<p>The chicken spirit animal is considered a timekeeper in many cultures. If the chicken totem appears to you, it indicates your need for a wake-up call.</p>
<p>There are circumstances in your life that need extra attention, and you need to deal with them right now before they blow up in your face.</p>
<p>The meaning of the chicken allows you to discover your true strengths and weaknesses that will help you deal with personal issues and weather any storm.</p>
<p>The chicken symbolism represents both physical and moral fortitude, so be watchful of signs that pose harm, danger, or ill will to yourself and others.</p>
<p>The meaning of the chicken in your life should embolden you to stand up and fight for those who cannot fight for themselves.</p>
<p>You have important things that you need to accomplish, and this is the time to rise and shine! Be ready for great new opportunities and unexpected possibilities.</p>
<h3><span id="the-chicken-totem-is-bad-luck-for-some-heres-why" style="font-size: 12pt;">The Chicken Totem is bad luck for some, here’s why…</span></h3>
<p>The chicken can be a very loud and proud animal. It represents your pride and arrogance, and how you can show off just to make other people envious of you.</p>
<p>This amount of pride and arrogance can affect the overall vibrations of your life. It can bring angry and jealous rivals to the fore who will prevent you from moving ahead and achieving your goals.</p>
<h3><span id="positive-traits-of-the-chicken-spirit-animal" style="font-size: 12pt;">Positive Traits of the Chicken Spirit Animal</span></h3>
<p>When the chicken totem is strong in you, you are honest and trustworthy. When you see something that’s not good or right, you will not hesitate to call someone for it.</p>
<p>You are strong and courageous, and you will fight for other people. You are vigilant and watchful because you want to keep the world peaceful and safe.</p>
<p>You are comfortable with your seductiveness, and you will not hesitate to show your fiery and passionate side. You are fun and exciting to be around.</p>
<p>You have no problems starting new projects and embarking on new journeys because your power of creation is always larger than life. Your aura is just filled with enthusiasm and excitement!</p>
<h3><span id="negative-traits-of-the-chicken-spirit-animal" style="font-size: 12pt;">Negative Traits of the Chicken Spirit Animal</span></h3>
<p>You are proud and arrogant. You can also be flamboyant.</p>
<p>You like to show off just for the sake of showing off, and this makes you unlikeable to many.</p>
<p>There’s also a tendency for you to be eccentric because of your desire to be unique, and this can sometimes backfire on your plans and goals.</p>
<h3><span id="call-on-your-chicken-spirit-animal-when" style="font-size: 12pt;">Call on your Chicken Spirit Animal when:</span></h3>
<ul>
<li>You need a boost of self-confidence.</li>
<li>Don’t forget that you are one amazing and wonderful human being. This slump that you’re in is just temporary, and soon you will get your groove back!</li>
<li>You need to celebrate your most authentic self.</li>
<li>There’s a time to practice and hone your craft, and there’s a time to show to the rest of the world just how brilliant you are. Don’t rush the process because you will know when the time is right.</li>
<li>You need help in managing time.</li>
</ul>
<p>If you find it difficult to keep your life in order and your priorities on track, don’t panic!</p>
<p>Don’t overextend yourself so that you will not have a hard time meeting all your deadlines and making good on all your promises.</p>
<h3>5 Unusual Facts About Chicken Symbolism</h3>
<p>Chicken symbolism, along with the idea of a chicken spirit animal may, for some, come across as being a rather peculiar idea.</p>
<p>However, the truth of the matter is that this particular form of symbolism can be significantly stronger than you may have previously anticipated.</p>
<p>In order to show this, it will prove to be rather useful to go ahead and look at different facts in connection to this.</p>
<p><strong>1. It is often viewed as being a sign of enlightenment.</strong></p>
<p>The chicken will often symbolise the concept of enlightenment along with the idea of a situation being illuminated when it wasn’t before.</p>
<p>The theory here is that you will then be able to see things from a completely different perspective, and that is going to ultimately allow you to make a better decision.</p>
<p><strong>2. You have to speak up about things.</strong></p>
<p>Chicken symbolism is also related to the idea that you are going to have to start speaking up about things that are concerning you.</p>
<p>Too often, you are quiet and afraid to speak your mind, but sadly that is actually something that is making life harder for you rather than the opposite.</p>
<p>What the chicken spirit animal is effectively saying to you is that you have the right to say what you think as voicing your opinion is just simply part of being human.</p>
<p><strong>3. Trust your inner voice.</strong></p>
<p>This is also all about the concept of trusting your own inner voice and intuition because there may very well be a whole lot more to it than you have initially thought.</p>
<p>Having some faith in what you believe and feel will be extremely important for you to then go ahead and make some kind of progress in your life.</p>
<p>However, we are often guilty of ignoring those thoughts or simply not having the trust in them.</p>
<p><strong>4. It is symbolic of protecting both your family and the community.</strong></p>
<p>Chicken symbolism is also very closely related to the idea of protecting not only your family, but also the community as well.</p>
<p>This can clearly be done in a number of ways, but it is also to do with the concept of standing up for yourself and voicing your opinion, just as was mentioned earlier, as those that are quiet will often find it harder to offer the same kind of protection.</p>
<p><strong>5. You have the absolute gift of discernment.</strong></p>
<p>Finally, having the chicken spirit animal is also going to indicate that you have the gift of discernment, but you need to understand how to use it effectively.</p>
<p>This is where most people are tripped up simply because they do not follow how it can be an advantage in their life, so learn it and understand it to make things a whole lot easier.</p>
<p>Ultimately, chicken symbolism is linked to the idea of speaking up and having the confidence to do so.</p>
<p>Failing to do this will potentially lead to conflict and ending up in a situation that you just do not want to be in.</p>
<h3><span id="my-final-thoughts-on-the-chicken-spirit-animal-and-its-symbolism" style="font-size: 12pt;">My final thoughts on the Chicken Spirit Animal and its Symbolism</span></h3>
<p>When the chicken spirit animal crosses your path, know that it brings good luck and prosperity. The chicken symbolism also indicates overall good health for you and your loved ones.</p>
<p>The chicken totem is your potent protector when it comes to negative energies that threaten to enter your world. Reach out to it when you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.</p>
<p>Believe that you can touch the stars! Trust in yourself, and you will be able to do all that you set out to achieve.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em><a href="https://trustedpsychicmediums.com/spirit-animals/chicken-spirit-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://trustedpsychicmediums.com/spirit-animals/chicken-spirit-animal/</a></em></span></p> BATtag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2020-11-20:6363372:Topic:35504642020-11-20T21:06:04.677ZSunKathttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/SunKat
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199129268?profile=RESIZE_584x"><img alt="8199129268?profile=RESIZE_584x" class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199129268?profile=RESIZE_584x" width="498"></img></a></p>
<p>I recently got food poisoning and found myself stuck in debilitating nausea that lasted for hours. During those hours I wrestled with a reluctance to vomit until finally that fate inevitably came. Relief soon followed and after a day of exhaustion, health was restored.</p>
<p>A few weeks later I found myself in a debilitating state of anger regarding a specific life situation.…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199129268?profile=RESIZE_584x"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8199129268?profile=RESIZE_584x" alt="8199129268?profile=RESIZE_584x" width="498"/></a></p>
<p>I recently got food poisoning and found myself stuck in debilitating nausea that lasted for hours. During those hours I wrestled with a reluctance to vomit until finally that fate inevitably came. Relief soon followed and after a day of exhaustion, health was restored.</p>
<p>A few weeks later I found myself in a debilitating state of anger regarding a specific life situation. As I went about my day carrying this anger, I felt a vague sense of familiarity with how I was feeling until at once I realized- this is the exact same feeling as physical nausea, only it is occurring in my mind. I have mental nausea. This meant I would eventually have to in some way vomit the poisonous thoughts from me as I had done with the poisonous substance I’d ingested. This confounded me and led to yet another observation.</p>
<p>Our body is designed to release toxins and waste products. We have a variety of ways to do that and we, ourselves, never need put effort into that process. It is autonomic, i.e. automatic and regulated by our sweat glands and our digestive system.</p>
<p>The brain does not have an inherent release mechanism the way the body does. Where it would be impossible for me to drink a glass of water and then decide to hold onto that water indefinitely- (eventually, I’d yield to the call of nature) my brain, on the other hand, can (and does) hold onto moments from the past of things said or done and simply never lets them go. The human form, (or any form for that matter) is not a finished thing. We are a constant work in progress, pushing the edge of evolution into as yet unimagined new potentials. While the human body is pretty near to perfect in physical capacities, the human mind is still very much in development and is currently working on developing a waste removal system. That process must be a manual chore on our part, like taking out the garbage and brushing our teeth. Our minds will not inherently cleanse and release. Perhaps one day the mind will develop autonomic cleansing processes like the body but for now, we have to put a conscious effort to that end at this point in our current evolution.</p>
<p>While still in the grips of my anger which was demanding a great deal of time and energy, I somehow also managed to recall and associate my recent physical experience of food poisoning and the particular sensation of upheaval that occurred in my body. I specifically recalled how resistant I’d been to that looming event, how I’d tried to find a way to avoid vomiting. That avoidance and reluctance was coming from my brain while my body, wisely just over road any effort of suppression.</p>
<p>I realized the power of my brain to avoid and suppress thoughts and feelings that were deemed inappropriate to allow and suddenly realized that if I was going to get rid of this anger, I would need to allow my mind to vomit, which is to say, I would need to allow my mind to have the thoughts and feelings it doesn’t want to have. Images of African and Native tribes shaking and shouting to a drum came to mind as I yielded to growling and physical struggle. I let the anger shift out of my brain and express itself in my body. The feelings of anger and violence were the toxins needing to get out. A sensation of mental vomiting rose up. Alarming violent impulses rose up of me wanting to hurt the person I was angry with. I did not shut down these images. I let myself imagine really making contact with that impulse and I stopped trying to withhold that desire from my mind.</p>
<p>Acknowledging a desire is not the same as acting on it. The Bat Spirit Animal introduces us to other dimensions where our impulses can be registered and felt but also not wreak havoc on our lives in this dimension. I was alone in my house and was nowhere near the possibility of interacting with any human, especially not the one I was angry with. But I could feel the strength of my conviction informing the air around me. I did not want to be angry. I did not want to <em>want</em> to hurt this person. But that IS how I felt and that feeling needed to come out.</p>
<p>Very much like the physical food poisoning, I found myself pacing and trying to resist and then ultimately I gave way to the process that was much larger than my opinions of how life should be.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bat" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Bat</a> Spirit Animal Totem</strong> is about yielding to the pull of pain we do not want to feel and letting it take us through that convulsive process in order to restore wellness. It is about renewal through compulsive and sudden release, but only after we’ve stopped fighting the reality of our ugly, unwanted, angry or embarrassing thoughts and feelings and made space for them. Living in alignment with Bat medicine is not going to be a fun time. But resisting will only prolong the nightmare. No medicine is a permanent state of being. These energy fields cycle.</p>
<p>People who have the Bat Spirit Animal Totem as a personal totem have within them a particularly strong spiritual fortitude to handle and process through the pain of life. These are often people who are first responders or midwives. They are leaders and guides through extreme physical and mental processes who have likely endured a difficult physical experience. In ancient times, they were the shamans of the village who did not flinch from looking at the reality of the brutal truth of nature. They endured and traversed the tunnels that lead to realization and greater awareness. They know first hand, from experience, they can handle what may come.</p>
<p>If Bat medicine has come into your life, try not to fight or suppress what you are feeling. Go through that tunnel. You will want to reschedule social plans. If you don’t, those social plans may end up being a platform for release which may be awkward to explain afterward. The Bat Spirit Animal Totem speaks of a solitary time. If retreat and isolation are not possible for you during a time of mental-emotional upheaval, try to do your best to explain to those around you that you need space and privacy for detoxing. Navigating the difficult and anti-social aspects of our shadow side is a part of the human experience. Remind yourself and your people of the value of tribal dancing and the importance of ‘freaking out’ as Western cultures view ancient practices of release and renewal. Don’t operate heavy machinery. This is a time to stay in and pile up the pillows because once Bat medicine arrives, everything will be uncomfortable, even the pillows, as you travel through your old perceptions into a new perspective.</p>
<p>But much like the physical process of purging nausea, keep in mind that this process of emotional and mental purging will not last long. If you find yourself in mental distress for longer than a day, you will want to enlist the help of someone else, either a friend or professional. That person can help you bring out into the open the thoughts that are eluding your conscious awareness. We are very skilled at dodging our own thoughts and can often be unaware of how we really feel due to an extreme aversion to acknowledging those feelings.</p>
<p>Feelings occur. Feelings are not choices we make. I can not choose to feel a certain way about something. How I feel rises up as a force of nature and is as it is. I often wish I felt differently and sometimes even try to pretend that I do. But it is only a matter of time before the truth wins out over my efforts to veil it. When I acknowledge the truth of how I feel and make decisions from that truth, I empower myself and improve my position in any dynamic. I may not be the powerful one in a dynamic but I will not be caught off guard with sudden inexplicable tears or anger if I commit to the practice of honest introspection.</p>
<p>But you may need to actually talk out loud to discover what is true for you- from that voice you don’t want to hear. You may need to expose that voice to a trusted witness so that you can really hear it. The only reason it has lingered so long is because it needs acknowledgment. That acknowledgment can come from within you. But it is sometimes hard for us to validate and accept our own selves by ourselves. If we develop authentic, therapeutic communication with one other person in life, we may be able to avoid the big, nauseating lessons of upheaval. Preventative medicine involves daily work to stay connected with the shifts and changes of our body and mind.</p>
<p>Human relationships can not require each person to behave in pleasant ways all the time in order to interact. We do need to follow the basic social customs most of the time for most life relationships. But we also want to know consciously that each person needs to find one or two people with whom they get into the mud with. At these times, we can not require “proper” social behavior. We get messy and try not to add to that challenge by heaping on feelings of shame or guilt for needing what we need.</p>
<p>One part of taking responsibility for ones self is the act of connecting with another person whom you let help you and to whom you offer help. Letting someone help you is much more difficult than offering help. Being the one who helps another has a certain power. But that power must be shared if a relationship is to be authentic. Being vulnerable is a requirement for truly satisfying friendships.</p>
<p>At the same time, it is also necessary to not live in a constant state of vulnerability. We can not expect our friends to put up with frequently reoccurring bad moods. In this life, we all need to develop the strength to carry our own weight and just a little more for the times when friends need us.</p>
<p>Bat has wings but she is not a bird. She takes to the air with a completely different system of gifts. She is a mammal with complex listening skills. She sees with sound through echolocation and her teachings are always saying- Listen. Really listen in order to see clearly. You may not want to hear what you hear. Or see what you see. But what is will not change until you acknowledge it as it is.</p>
<p>For more perspectives on the Bat Spirit Animal Totem, check out another of my article about the <a href="http://otteronarock.com/bat-medicine-adulthood-rites/">Bat Medicine and Adulthood Rites.</a></p>
<p>I wish you peace and pillows during your times of upheaval.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em><a href="http://otteronarock.com/bat-spirit-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://otteronarock.com/bat-spirit-animal/</a></em></span></p> Cricket Magick and Loretag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2020-11-12:6363372:Topic:35501602020-11-12T22:07:50.831ZSunKathttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/SunKat
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“I do believe that an intimacy with the world of crickets and their kind can be salutary – not for what they are likely to teach us about ourselves but because they remind us, if we will let them, that there are other voices, other rhythms, other strivings and fulfillments than our own.”</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em>~Howard E. Evans…</em></span></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“I do believe that an intimacy with the world of crickets and their kind can be salutary – not for what they are likely to teach us about ourselves but because they remind us, if we will let them, that there are other voices, other rhythms, other strivings and fulfillments than our own.”</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><em>~Howard E. Evans</em></span></p>
<p><em><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155540871?profile=RESIZE_930x" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155540871?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"/></a></em></p>
<p>Cricket will attune to new vibrations and will aid in heightening intuition, sensitivity and awareness. Crickets can teach effective communication techniques and subconsciousness communication cues to obtain what is needed or wanted.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Keynote</strong>: Sensitive intuition, Power of belief</li>
<li><strong>Most Powerful Time</strong>: Late summer and autumn</li>
</ul>
<p>Crickets are about resurrection and transformation from stages as in the molting process. Is it time to shed old ideas to make way for the new? Expect changes and new developments that will bring growth through reflection and patience as the sensitivity to mental, emotional and physical challenges are coming your way.</p>
<ul>
<li>Are you singing your song to be heard at this time?</li>
<li>Is it time to rest in contemplation or jump toward your intended target whether it be at work, in relationships, or personal goal and dream?</li>
</ul>
<p>Cricket will help in finding the right balance of action using intuition and subtle awareness.</p>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;">If A Cricket Shows Up</span></h4>
<p>Crickets have an abundance of myth and folklore surrounding them, almost all having to do with a stimulation of intuition and the power of our beliefs. In China the cricket is considered a summer animal symbolizing pluck and a fighting spirit. In fact, ceremonial cricket fights were once staged to awaken such a spirit in their human captors.</p>
<p>In England and parts of Europe, to find a cricket upon one’s hearth was a sign of great good luck for the home Although some superstitions speak of a cricket in the home as a foreboding of death and bad luck, such teachings were rare. The opposite is the more common interpretation.</p>
<p>Crickets in the home were often thought of as the familiar that watched over and guarded the home’s occupants ~ especially against bad spirits. In the 1800’s many people believed that crickets were lucky to have about the house and would do no harm if treated well. Bad luck would befall only those who harmed this creature. In most traditions, it is best to leave the cricket alone. To remove it from the house or to kill it would bring bad luck.</p>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Cricket As A Guide</span></h4>
<p>There are several thousand species of crickets around the world. They are also known as <em>bushcrickets</em>, and although they are related to the grasshopper, they have a distinct symbology. They have been kept as pets, many believing them to be the reincarnation of relatives. They have been considered a familiar by some and the devil by others. Their singing was believed in parts of Europe to herald good luck. To do them harm was unlucky, while to honor them brought good fortune.</p>
<p>While some species do sing in the day, most crickets are mainly nocturnal. The appearance of cricket in your life heralds an awakening of sensitivities and the finding of light within the dark. This is primarily because of their nocturnal activity and their darker coloration. They are perceptive within the dark times and are able to use whatever light is available to them.</p>
<p>Their appearance reminds us to trust our own intuition, as it is much more accurate than we may believe. Dreams will become more clairvoyant, and cricket reminds us that we can truly rely on our dreamtime perceptions.</p>
<p>Crickets are distinguished from grasshoppers primarily by their long antennae, which reflect our heightened sensitivity. They further remind us to trust our own intuition and our own expressions of light, even if different from others. Now is the time to believe in and rely upon our long range perceptions and insights. We should trust in what we have always believed.</p>
<p>The male cricket sings by rubbing its wing bases together. Their calls are often shrill, but it is a call that is connected to mating. The song of the cricket is a song of good cheer, especially in relationships, a reminder to trust in our beliefs and perceptions about the other people within our lives. If cricket is singing within your life, now is the time to be of good cheer. Your believing is about to be rewarded, and the song they are singing is of success and pleasures ahead.</p>
<p>Most crickets live on the ground. Some can fly, but many have no hind wings. Some have no wings at all. If cricket has appeared, we may need to stay balanced and grounded when exploring or working with our intuition and psychic abilities. Our belief system may be a bit askew. It is not unusual to find a cricket appearing at times for professionals in the psychic or metaphysical field when conscious efforts are not being made to be balanced and grounded.</p>
<p>Most crickets molt at least once, and a cricket may warn us that it is time to shed old beliefs that are no longer suitable. It can warn that the psychic energies of ourselves or others may be over-stimulated and exaggerated at this time.</p>
<ul>
<li>Are we not seeing things properly?</li>
<li>Are we denying our own beliefs?</li>
<li>Have we forgotten how to believe?</li>
<li>Is it time to get some new beliefs?</li>
<li>Are we exaggerating what we perceive?</li>
<li>Are we not hearing the true songs of the people around us?</li>
<li>Do we need to listen to what is not being said as much as to what is?</li>
<li>Are we not holding true to our beliefs? Are others?</li>
</ul>
<p>Beliefs and ideas are more likely to be distorted and embellished, and this should be taken into consideration before taking any action. Perceptions may lack depth and there may even be some deception about what is being perceived. Others may be trying to make us believe something that is not entirely true or to which there is incomplete information. The cricket should stimulate some self-examination.</p>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155544653?profile=RESIZE_400x" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155544653?profile=RESIZE_400x" width="333"/></a>Cricket Superstitions</span></h4>
<p>Beliefs about crickets vary considerably. As a rule, these friendly little insects, which love to make their home with human beings, are thought to be fortunate. If they leave a house suddenly, after long dwelling therein, it is an omen of death, and to kill one brings sure misfortune.</p>
<p>On the other hand their chirping is sometimes regarded as a death omen or a sign of a coming storm. If they suddenly invade a house where none was before, bad luck is expected in some parts of the world.</p>
<p>For thousands of years, it has been considered lucky to have a cricket on the hearth, especially in Asian countries where crickets were once used as “watchdogs.” When danger approached, the cricket’s chirping would stop. The appearance of a white cricket on the hearth, however, is almost everywhere considered an extremely bad omen, foretelling a death in the family soon.</p>
<p>The chirping of crickets predicts changes in the weather, the arrival of friends, and changes in luck.</p>
<p>The cricket is known as “the poor man’s thermometer,” and is believed by some to be a good indication of the temperature. To know the temperature, count the number of chirps a cricket makes within’ fifteen seconds and add the number thirty-seven. This will give you the temperature in degrees. An alternative measurement calls for counting the number of chirps in 15 seconds and then adding 40 to it.</p>
<p>In East India the superstition of the cricket lies in the story of the peril of the soul which, it is held, can leave the body during sleep. The soul, says this Indian fable, leaves the sleeping person in the form of a cricket emerging from the nose.</p>
<p>Native Americans believed crickets brought good luck as well, and avoided mimicking the chirping out of respect for the insect. At one time, it was said that Cherokee Indians drank tea made of crickets, in order to become good singers like the crickets.</p>
<p>It was generally believed that killing a cricket in your house would bring bad luck. It’s possible that this superstition of misfortune from killing a cricket comes from the idea that such an act is a breach of hospitality, the little insect invariably taking refuge in houses, and singing it’s cheerful “all is well” songs.</p>
<p>The singing of crickets in the folklore of Brazil and elsewhere is sometimes taken to be a sign of impending rain, or of a financial windfall. In Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca’s chronicles of the Spanish conquest of the Americas, the sudden chirping of a cricket heralded the sighting of land for his crew, just as their water supply had run out.</p>
<p>In Caraguatatuba, Brazil, a black cricket in a room is said to portend illness; a gray one, money; and a green one, hope. In Alagoas state, northeast Brazil, a cricket announces death, thus it is killed if it chirps in a house.</p>
<p>In Barbados, a loud cricket means money is coming in; hence, a cricket must not be killed or evicted if it chirps inside a house. However, another type of cricket that is less noisy forebodes illness or death.</p>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;">More Cricket Superstitions:</span></h4>
<ul>
<li>It was believed that a cricket can tell of oncoming rain, death, and x-lovers.</li>
<li>It’s very bad luck to kill a cricket, even by accident.</li>
<li>If you kill a cricket you will tear your drawers (underwear).</li>
<li>If a cricket is caught in a deep crevice in the rock, or between boards, the bystander who does not release him will suffer from bad luck.</li>
<li>If you kill a cricket other crickets will come and bite holes in your clothes.</li>
<li>A cricket in the house brings good luck.</li>
<li>Finding a cricket in your house tells of money on its way or some other prosperity coming. Make sure to not disturb the cricket.</li>
<li>It is very bad luck to kill a cricket on a Sunday.</li>
<li>A cricket is a lucky house spirit that takes it’s luck away when it leaves.</li>
<li>The chirping of a cricket foretells sorrow.</li>
<li>If a cricket chirps behind the stove, some one in the family must die. Others consider it an omen of good luck.</li>
</ul>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Celtic Cricket Lore</span></h4>
<p>The crickets are believed to be enchanted. People do not like to express an exact opinion about them, so they are spoken of with great mystery and awe, and no one would venture to kill them for the whole world.</p>
<p>But they are by no means evil; on the contrary, the presence of the cricket is considered lucky, and their singing keeps away the fairies at night, who are always anxious, in their selfish way, to have the whole hearth left clear for themselves, that they may sit round the last embers of the fire, and drink the cup of milk left for them by the farmer’s wife, in peace and quietness.</p>
<p>The crickets are supposed to be hundreds of years old, and their talk, could we understand it, would no doubt be most interesting and instructive.</p>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Chinese Cricket Lore</span></h4>
<p>In early China, farmers used crickets as a symbol of the growing season. When crickets appeared each year, it was time to plant crops; when they disappeared in the autumn, it was time to harvest.</p>
<p>Crickets also are symbolic of success and family size in China. The insects lay hundreds of eggs before dying. Centuries ago, large families were very important to the Chinese, as they were equated with success. To wish someone to have a family like crickets was to wish them success.</p>
<p>The Chinese believe the crickets make not noise, but beautiful music. Songs have been written around the chirping sounds made by male crickets. The cricket also symbolizes summer as well as courage and a fighting spirit.</p>
<p>Even in the 21st century, the Chinese still revere crickets. They still buy them in little cages so they can take them home and listen to them sing. China’s major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai even have insect markets where crickets can be purchased. Cricket fighting is as popular today in China as it was centuries ago. Crickets perceived to be good fighters can sell for hundreds, maybe even thousands, of dollars.</p>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Crickets As Pets and Fighting Animals</span></h4>
<p>Crickets are kept as pets and are considered good luck in some countries; in China, they are sometimes kept in cages or in hollowed-out gourds specially created in novel shapes. The practice was common in Japan for thousands of years; it peaked in the 19th century, though crickets are still sold at pet shops. It is also common to have them as caged pets in some European countries, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula.</p>
<p>Cricket fighting is a traditional Chinese pastime that dates back to the Tang dynasty (618–907). Originally an indulgence of emperors, cricket fighting later became popular among commoners. The dominance and fighting ability of males does not depend on strength alone; it has been found that they become more aggressive after certain pre-fight experiences such as isolation, or when defending a refuge. Crickets forced to fly for a short while will afterwards fight for two to three times longer than they otherwise would.</p>
<h4><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Cricket in Slang and Metaphor</span></h4>
<p>By the 19th century “cricket” and “crickets” were in use as euphemisms for using Christ as an interjection. The addition of “Jiminy” (a variation of “Gemini”), sometimes shortened to “Jimmy” created the expressions “Jiminy Cricket!” or “Jimmy Crickets!” as less blasphemous alternatives to exclaiming “Jesus Christ!”</p>
<p>By the end of the 20th century the sound of chirping crickets came to represent quietude in literature, theatre and film. From this sentiment arose expressions equating “crickets” with silence altogether, particularly when a group of assembled people makes no noise. These expressions have grown from the more descriptive, “so quiet that you can hear crickets,” to simply saying , “crickets” as shorthand for “complete silence.”</p>
<p><strong>Sources</strong>:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ancient Legends, Mystic Charms, and Superstitions of Ireland</li>
<li><a href="http://www.starstuffs.com/animal_totems/dictionary_of_insects.html">Star Stuffs</a></li>
<li>Animal Wise</li>
<li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cricket_(insect)">Wikipedia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.theclassroom.com/what-is-the-symbolism-of-the-cricket-in-china-12081068.html">The Classroom</a></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em><a href="https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/cricket-magick-and-lore/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/cricket-magick-and-lore/</a></em></span></p> Celtic and Druid Spirit Animalstag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2020-11-12:6363372:Topic:35501582020-11-12T21:54:26.272ZSunKathttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/SunKat
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<p><strong>Adder, Snake (<em>Nadredd</em>):</strong></p>
<p>The snake has long been associated with wisdom, reincarnation, and cunning. The Poisonous adder of the British Isles has the same reputation. Although there were no snakes in Ireland, the Irish Celts knew about them. The Druids were known in Wales as Nadredd. The Druids also carried an…</p>
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<p><strong>Adder, Snake (<em>Nadredd</em>):</strong></p>
<p>The snake has long been associated with wisdom, reincarnation, and cunning. The Poisonous adder of the British Isles has the same reputation. Although there were no snakes in Ireland, the Irish Celts knew about them. The Druids were known in Wales as Nadredd. The Druids also carried an amulet called <em>gloine nathair</em> (Serpent Glass); which was supposed to be formed from the eggs of an adder.</p>
<p><strong>Badger (<em>Breach</em>):</strong></p>
<p>This animal is unyielding in the face of danger and is noted for its tenacity and courage. In the Welsh tale of Pwyll’s courting of Rhiannon, a badger is mentioned as a guide during dreaming. The badger will teach you to fight for your rites and defend your spiritual ideas.</p>
<p><strong>Bat:</strong></p>
<p>Associated with the underworld or <em>Awwyn</em>, as the bats radar guides it through the night avoiding obstacles and barriers, so it can teach you to do the same.</p>
<p><strong>Bear (<em>Arth</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Although the bear was native to the Isles, it is now extinct there. The word <em>Arth</em>, means bear, which is the root word for the name Arthur. The bear was noted for its strength and stamina. It is said to help give you balance in life and the strength to do what is necessary.</p>
<p><strong>Bee (<em>Beach</em>):</strong></p>
<p>The bee is revered as industrious, single minded when performing a task, and fearless when defending its home.</p>
<p><strong>Blackbird (<em>Druid-dhubh, Lon Duhb</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Legends say that the birds of Rhiannan are three blackbirds, which sit and sing in the World Tree of the Otherworlds. Their singing puts the listener into a sleep or a trance which enables him/her to travel to the Otherworld. It was said to impart mystic secrets.</p>
<p><strong>Boar (<em>Bacrie</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Important in the arts and myths of the Celtic people, the boar was known for its cunning and ferocious nature. A famous legendary boar was <em>Orc Triath</em>, which the goddess Brigit owned. In the Arthurian tales of the <em>Mabinogion</em> the boar <em>Twrch Trwyth</em> was a terrible foe to Arthur. The White Boar of Marvan sent inspiration to its master to write music and poetry.</p>
<p><strong>Bull (<em>Tarbh</em>):</strong></p>
<p>A common animal figure in Celtic mythology, the bull symbolizes strength and potency. Certain divination rituals required the sacrifice of a white bull. In the tale of the <em>Tain Bo Cuailgne</em> (Cattle raid of Cooley), two special bulls are coveted by two rulers. <em>The Tar-roo-Ushtey</em> (Water bull) is said to haunt the Isle of Man.</p>
<p><strong>Butterfly:</strong></p>
<p>In many cultures the butterfly is thought to be the souls of the dead and keepers of power. There is said to be no negative energies experienced in any Otherworld area when there is the presence of butterflies. It is said that they will help you to view matters with greater clarity.</p>
<p><strong>Cat (<em>Caoit</em>, Cat):</strong></p>
<p>Many of the Celtic legends picture the cat as a ferocious, evil creature, but that may have been because cats at that time were untamed. In Ireland <em>Finn mac Cumhail</em> was said to have fought a clan of “cat-headed” people. The cat is a strong protector, especially when placed in confrontation.</p>
<p><strong>Cock:</strong></p>
<p>In several Celtic legends the cock chases away ghosts and unwanted spirits by his crowing at dawn. It represents the power of the word to dispel negativity.</p>
<p><strong>Cow (<em>Bo</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Once so important to the Celts it was used as a form of currency or monetary exchange. Ancient Irish lords were known as <em>bo-aire</em> or cow-lord. The cow was sacred to the goddess Brigit. The cow symbolizes contentedness, defending the inner child, and providing for daily needs.</p>
<p><strong>Crane:</strong></p>
<p>At one time the crane was a common animal in the British Isles. One later Celtic tradition, apparently originated after the arrival of Christianity, is that cranes are people who are paying a penance for some wrong doing. The crane is associated with the <em>Cailleach</em> and <em>Manannan Mac Lir</em>, who made his crane bag from its skin. The crane with its colors of black, white, and red, was a moon bird, sacred to the Triple Goddess. Magick, shamanic travel, learning and keeping secrets, reaching deeper mysteries and truths is said to be taught by the crane.</p>
<p><strong>Crow (<em>Badb</em>):</strong></p>
<p>This animal is to be treated with care. Along with the raven, the crow is a symbol of conflict and death, an ill-omen associated with such Goddess as Macha, Badb, and Morrigan. The Irish word for crow is badb, which is also the name of a Celtic war Goddess. Although the crow was ill-omened, it was also considered to be skillful, cunning, and a bringer of knowledge. It teaches you to learn from the past, but not to hold onto it. It is of most value when trickery is in need.</p>
<p><strong>Deer (<em>Abhach</em>) or Stag (<em>Sailetheach</em>):</strong></p>
<p>In its form of the white doe or white stag, the deer was often a messenger and guide from the Otherworld. Following such an animal led the unsuspecting human into contact with supernatural beings. The antlered headdress of <em>Cernunnos</em> is a symbol of the stags stature. The deer represents keen scent, grace, swiftness, and gentleness. These are the ways of reaching our goals without using force.</p>
<p><strong>Dog (<em>Abach</em>, <em>Mada</em>) or Hound (<em>Cu</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Devoted hounds are often mentioned in Celtic myth, such as <em>Bran</em> and <em>Sceolan</em> which belonged to Finn mac Cumhail. Underworld hounds, such as the Welsh <em>Cwn Annwn</em> belonged to Arawn, are always white with red ears. The Underworld Hounds run down and punish the guilty. Dogs represent tracking skills, the ability to scent a trail, and companionship.</p>
<p><strong>Dolphin:</strong></p>
<p>This creature was associated with the sea deities. It deals with dreams and harmony, and recognizing and balancing the rhythms of your body with those of nature.</p>
<p><strong>Dragon (<em>Piastras,</em> <em>payshtha</em>, <em>Horn</em>):</strong></p>
<p>The dragon in Celtic-British mythology has more varieties than the standard legged form; it is sometimes represented as a water serpent or worm-shaped beast. There are many references to serpents or dragons in Celtic myth. On many occasions the <em>Fianna</em> fought huge dragons in lakes. Most cultures consider the dragon a benevolent dweller of caves, lakes, and the inner Earth. It was an ancient symbol of wealth. The dragon symbolizes the power of the Elements, especially that of the Earth, but also of the treasure of the subconscious mind.</p>
<p><strong>Eagle (<em>Lolair</em>):</strong></p>
<p>A bird noted for wisdom and long life in Celtic stories. The eagle represents swiftness, strength, keen sight, and the knowledge of magick. It helps you to see hidden spiritual truths.</p>
<p><strong>Eel (<em>As-chu</em>):</strong></p>
<p>One of many stories in which the eel is mentioned is the story of the swineherds who battled through a variety of shape-shifting forms. In their final forms as eels, the swineherds were swallowed by cows who later gave birth to magickal bulls. <em>Cu Chulainn’s</em> spear <em>Gae-Bolga</em> got its name from the eel. The eel symbolizes adaptability, wisdom, inspiration, and defense.</p>
<p><strong>Fox (<em>Mada Rua</em>):</strong></p>
<p>In Taliesin’s Song of His Origins, the Bard says he assumed the shape of a satirizing fox, a reference to the cunning, slyness, and ability of the fox to make fools out of those who chase it. The ability to watch the motivations and movements of others while remaining unobserved is the skill which we may learn from the fox.</p>
<p><strong>Frog:</strong></p>
<p>In many cultures the frog is a symbol of magick. It can teach you to leap swiftly from one level of consciousness to another, from this world to the Otherworld. The frog can also help you find the courage to accept new ideas, nurture yourself, and find connections between ideas.</p>
<p><strong>Hare or Rabbit (<em>Coinin</em>):</strong></p>
<p>An animal sacred to the Goddess Andraste in particular. Its movements were sometimes used for divination; <em>Boudicia</em> used a hare this way just before her last battle with the Romans. It is associated with transformation, the receiving of hidden teachings, and intuitive messages.</p>
<p><strong>Hawk (<em>Aracos</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Celtic oral tradition lists the oldest animal as the <em>Hawk of Achill</em>. As with other birds, the hawk is a messenger between the Otherworld and this world. However, it is of greater skill and strength than other birds. It symbolizes clear sightedness and longevity of the memory. If you hear a hawk cry during a journey, be alert to upcoming situations that need boldness and decisiveness to keep from being thrown off balance.</p>
<p><strong>Horse (<em>Cab-all</em>, <em>Capall</em>):</strong></p>
<p>A popular animal of the Celts. Sacred to the Goddesses Epona and Rhiannon. The horse was considered to be a faithful guide to the Otherworld. It symbolizes stamina, endurance, and faithfulness.</p>
<p><strong>Lizard:</strong></p>
<p>The lizard symbolizes the shadowy plane of manifestation where events are constantly changing shapes and patterns. If you see a lizard on a journey, be alert to all below the surface activities going on around you.</p>
<p><strong>Lynx:</strong></p>
<p>This creature is considered the keeper of deep secrets and hidden knowledge. It can help with divinatory skills and the development of psychic senses. Sometimes it symbolizes the need to look deeper within yourself to see that which is often hidden.</p>
<p><strong>Magpie:</strong></p>
<p>This bird is said to deal with omens and prophecies, as well as the mysteries of life and death.</p>
<p><strong>Mouse (<em>Luch</em>):</strong></p>
<p>The mouse is often mentioned in Celtic folklore. In a Welsh story with <em>Manawydan</em> and <em>Pryderi</em>, a mouse is portrayed as the shape shifted wife of the magician Llwyd. The mouse represents secrets, cunning, shyness, and the ability to hide in times of danger.</p>
<p><strong>Otter (<em>Balgair</em>):</strong></p>
<p>These animals were considered very magickal by the Celts. Otters were said to appear and help during the voyages of <em>Maelduine</em>, <em>Brendan</em>, and others. The otter is a strong protector who helps with gaining wisdom, finding inner talents, faithfulness, and the ability to recover from any crisis.</p>
<p><strong>Owl (<em>Caillech</em>):</strong></p>
<p>These birds were most often associated with the Crone aspects of the Goddess. The word “<em>cailleach</em>” in the Scottish Gaelic means “owl.” The owl is often a guide to and through the Underworld, a creature of keen sight in darkness, and a silent and swift hunter. It can help unmask those who would deceive you or take advantage of you.</p>
<p><strong>Pig (<em>Muc</em>):</strong></p>
<p>A swine was considered to be the magickal, sacred food of the <em>Tuatha De Dannan</em> and an animal of <em>Manannan mac Lir</em>. In the <em>Mabinogion Pwyll</em> received a gift of pigs from the underworld God, <em>Awrawn</em>. Their later theft by <em>Gwydion</em> caused the death of <em>Pwyll’s</em> son <em>Pryderi</em>. The writings of Merlin say that he spoke with a little pig in visions. Symbolic of the spiritual food necessary to the Druids who were said to be swine herders.</p>
<p><strong>Rat (<em>Francach</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Rats are not mentioned in a favorable light in Celtic folklore, but they have their place. Rats are sly, sometimes aggressive, creatures who can track down whatever they seek, defending themselves ferociously.</p>
<p><strong>Raven (<em>Bran</em>):</strong></p>
<p>Take care when dealing with this bird. An important animal of the Celts. In Ireland the raven was associated with the battlefields and such Goddesses as <em>Morrigu</em> or the later <em>Welsh Morrigan</em>, just as the crow. The bird was connected with <em>Bran the Blessed</em>. In Welsh, <em>bran</em> means, “raven.” Although its reputation is dubious, it is an oracular bird. It often represents the upsets and crisis of life that are necessary for new creation.</p>
<p><strong>Salmon (<em>Brionnfhionn</em>):</strong></p>
<p>A very wise, magickal creature in Celtic lore. A salmon of great knowledge is said to swim in the <em>Well of Segais</em>, eating the mystical hazelnuts that fall into the well. When the Irish hero <em>Finn mac Cumhail</em> burned his thumb on a salmon and then put the thumb in his mouth, he gained shamanic knowledge. The salmon teaches how to get in touch with ancestral knowledge and how to put it to practical use.</p>
<p><strong>Sow (<em>Airc</em>):</strong></p>
<p>The Goddess <em>Cerridwen</em> was known as the White Sow. The sow was considered a very powerful creature in the Underworld. As a creature of <em>Cerridwen</em>, it was associated with the Sacred Cauldron and the granting of inspiration; also a creature of death and rebirth.</p>
<p><strong>Squirrel:</strong></p>
<p>This creature is always preparing for the future; it is said to have shown the druid how to do this in a practical way. Sometimes its appearance heralds changes, even adversities. Plan ahead so that you may always be prepared.</p>
<p><strong>Swan (<em>Eala</em>):</strong></p>
<p>A mystical bird who finds its way into several Celtic stories. Its feathers were often used in the ritual cloak of the Bards. Swans are connected with music and song. Swans also help with the interpretation of dream symbols, transitions, and spiritual evolution.</p>
<p><strong>Turtle:</strong></p>
<p>The turtle is a slow moving, methodical creature, carrying its protection constantly with it. It is said to teach the druid to be grounded, how to stay in tune with Earth energies, the wisdom of flowing with the cycles of life, and to be gentle with the body’s needs.</p>
<p><strong>Unicorn:</strong></p>
<p>This mythical Celtic creature had the body of a white horse, the legs of an antelope, tail of a lion; and a single horn on its head. It is the symbol of supreme magickal power. It teaches that every action is creation, so make every day count.</p>
<p><strong>Wolf:</strong></p>
<p>The wolf is a cunning, intelligent creature, capable of out thinking hunters. It can teach you how to read the signs of nature in everything, how to pass danger invisibly, how to outwit those who would wish you harm, and how to fight when needed.</p>
<p><strong>Wren (<em>Dryw</em>, <em>Dreoilin</em>):</strong></p>
<p>A sacred bird to the Druids specifically, its musical notes were used for divination. As with many other birds, the wren was considered a messenger from the deities.</p>
<p><strong>Source</strong>: <a href="http://fatheroak.com/">Father Oak</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em><a href="https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/celtic-and-druid-spirit-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/celtic-and-druid-spirit-animals/</a></em></span></p> Gophertag:templeilluminatus.ning.com,2020-11-12:6363372:Topic:35501562020-11-12T21:46:05.079ZSunKathttps://templeilluminatus.ning.com/profile/SunKat
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155507670?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155507670?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p>Gophers live in colonies and understand the meaning of family and trusting in others. They have a very cool communication between them, which includes speaking in clicks and whistles, as well as with a special ultrasonic whistle for family members.</p>
<p>As a being that lives underground, they are said to be “Secrets of Life” Keepers. They are also known to be…</p>
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<p>Gophers live in colonies and understand the meaning of family and trusting in others. They have a very cool communication between them, which includes speaking in clicks and whistles, as well as with a special ultrasonic whistle for family members.</p>
<p>As a being that lives underground, they are said to be “Secrets of Life” Keepers. They are also known to be Masters of “As above, so below”. They live underground in tunnels that intersect and connect, keeping them safe underground for extended periods of time. But whether life is above ground, or below it, or even in the water, their series of tunnels demonstrate how everything is connected, even though it may be hidden from us.</p>
<p>Gopher is a master at knowing how to dig and uncover hidden truths and meanings and she/he shares this gift with you. Gophers have poor eyesight (in part because of spending a lot of time underground in the dark, and because they are small) so they will keep watch on the tallest point of land in order to be able to see movement so they can warn their colony.</p>
<p>And of course, they are very adept to feeling vibrations in the ground, which is usually why we don’t see them often, as they have advance warning of oncoming visitors. Gopher has beautiful attributes and not to be seen as a pest like many do, as they try to run them off, or worse, from their homes, especially because they love our gardens too.</p>
<p>They feed from their tunnels, pulling down plants and run around with ease and speed, able to jump down small holes instantly. But rather than see them as a nuisance, it would be of more benefit and compassion to observe the Gopher’s wisdom and get more acquainted with what they have to share.</p>
<p>Gopher showing up in your life is asking you to feel all around you and to be present with the vibrations of energy you pick up, are sensing, and intuiting. Their medicine teaches you how to attune yourself to these spiritual and physical vibrations and sensations, as well as teaches abilities to listen, feel, and heighten your intuition to be able to tune into the guidance of direction your innate instincts are leading you to. Then to be do the energy work that what you are feeling is presenting to you.</p>
<p>They bring a message of looking to your own growth process and observing where you plant your seeds, and ask you to take responsibility for your actions instead of adopting a victim role and blaming others. Gopher also helps us develop the skill of uncovering hidden truths and meanings and all that lies beneath a situation, which would include our shadow parts.</p>
<p>He/she also shows us how to listen to and align with perfect timing to take of the many choices available and how those choices are interconnected. Perhaps it is time to “dig” with a sense of purpose and direction or perhaps it is time to utilize your resources that you have before you – because you are more prepared than you realize, but just haven’t trusted yourself enough to just go for it – get it….”go pher” it. </p>
<p>So our amazing little Gopher friends shows you how to maneuver with purpose and keep the balance of instincts in tune with the heartbeat of our beautiful Earth. Gopher offers us wisdom of deeper truths that are awaiting us to pay attention to and then to follow their flow.</p>
<h4><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155508277?profile=RESIZE_584x" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155508277?profile=RESIZE_584x" width="475"/></a>Native American Gopher Mythology</h4>
<p>Gophers are considered to be messengers of the underworld by many western tribes, and are sometimes seen as a symbol of death. In some Shoshone and Paiute traditions, gophers were considered medicine animals who could cause or cure sickness in people, and birth defects were said to be the result of pregnant women eating vegetables a gopher had touched.</p>
<p>In Northern California tribes, a gopher digging near a family’s home is thought to be an omen of illness or death; in the Karuk tribe, it was considered bad luck to kill or eat gophers. In Klamath and Modoc mythology, Gopher was the younger brother of the Creator and played a role in the tribal creation myth. Gophers sometimes appear as healers or wise advisors in Native folklore.</p>
<p>Gophers are also used as clan animals in some Native American cultures. Tribes with Gopher Clans include the Hopi tribe (whose Gopher Clan was named Mui-wungwa) and the Pueblo tribes of New Mexico.</p>
<h4>Dreaming About Gophers</h4>
<p>To see a gopher in your dream means that you are being used and manipulated by others out of survival needs. Below are more gopher related dream interpretations in various contexts.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dream About Hitting Gopher</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>To hit or beat a gopher in the dream, suggests that you should “go for it”. Take initiative and act now to grab that fleeting chance.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dream About Gophers Digging</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Dreaming about gophers digging in and out of places, reflects the various path that you could take in the near future. These choices are all interconnected and sometimes you simply have to make a judgment call on the best path.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dream About Gopher Tunnel</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Seeing gophers tunnels signifies the need to maneuver your path while using the balance of your instincts. Always keep your options open and leave yourself with more diverse entrances and exits is key to your survival.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dream About Gopher Hiding</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>To dream about gopher hiding away in its tunnel, represents how you feel unnoticed by others, may it be the good or the bad that you do. The dream suggests that you may need to find ways to stand up for yourself.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dream About Catching and Baiting Gopher</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Dreaming about setting up traps to try and bait catch gopher, refers to your skill at uncovering hidden truths and meanings. Try to look beneath a situation and figure out the true cause, you will only be able to solve your problems at hand by digging a little deeper and be patient.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dream About Gopher Mounds</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>To see gopher mounds in the dream, represents that you should better utilize the resources you have before you. You might be using resources or assets behind other people’s back. Be careful about the evidences or you would be caught red handed and found guilty.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dream About Gopher Destroying Your Garden</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Dreaming about your beautiful garden being destroyed or eaten by a gopher, suggests that an employee, contractor, or someone that you work with may be stealing behind your back. However, this generally because you may be underpaying or taking advantage of those whom you work with. They may be forced to take unethical rebates or kickbacks in order to survive.</p>
<h4><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155508482?profile=RESIZE_584x" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8155508482?profile=RESIZE_584x" width="475"/></a>Gophers vs Groundhogs</h4>
<p>Despite their similar appearances and burrowing habits, groundhogs and gophers don’t have a whole lot in common—they don’t even belong to the same family. For example, gophers belong to the family Geomyidae, a group that includes pocket gophers (sometimes referred to as “true” gophers), kangaroo rats, and pocket mice.</p>
<p>Groundhogs, meanwhile, are members of the Sciuridae (meaning shadow-tail) family and belong to the genus Marmota. Marmots are diurnal ground squirrels, Daniel Blumstein, a UCLA biologist and marmot expert, tells Mental Floss. “There are 15 species of marmot, and groundhogs are one of them,” he explains.</p>
<p>Science aside, there are plenty of other visible differences between the two animals. Gophers, for example, have hairless tails, protruding yellow or brownish teeth, and fur-lined cheek pockets for storing food—all traits that make them different from groundhogs. The feet of gophers are often pink, while groundhogs have brown or black feet. And while the tiny gopher tends to weigh around two or so pounds, groundhogs can grow to around 13 pounds.</p>
<p>While both types of rodent eat mostly vegetation, gophers prefer roots and tubers (much to the dismay of gardeners trying to plant new specimens), while groundhogs like vegetation and fruits. This means that the former animals rarely emerge from their burrows, while the latter are more commonly seen out and about.</p>
<p>Groundhogs “have burrows underground they use for safety, and they hibernate in their burrows,” Blumstein says. “They’re active during the day above ground, eating a variety of plants and running back to their burrows to safety. If it’s too hot, they’ll go back into their burrow. If the weather gets crappy, they’ll go back into their burrow during the day as well.”</p>
<p>But that doesn’t necessarily mean that gophers are the more reclusive of the two, as groundhogs famously hibernate during the winter. Gophers, on the other hand, remain active—and wreck lawns—year-round.</p>
<p>“What’s really interesting is if you go to a place where there’s gophers, in the spring, what you’ll see are what is called eskers,” or winding mounds of soil, Blumstein says. “Basically, they dig all winter long through the earth, but then they tunnel through snow, and they leave dirt in these snow tunnels.”</p>
<p><strong>Sources</strong>:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/518313/whats-difference-between-gophers-and-groundhogs">Mental Floss</a></li>
<li><a href="https://taniamarieartist.wordpress.com/2014/03/30/gopher-wisdom-masters-of-as-above-so-below/">Tania Marie</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.native-languages.org/legends-gopher.htm">Native Languages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://dream-meaning.net/animal/gopher-dream-interpretation/">Dream Meaning</a></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em><a href="https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/gopher-as-a-spirit-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/gopher-as-a-spirit-guide/</a></em></span></p>