Bat

Bats are a flying mammal that specializes in radar. Bats live in caves, or dark places like attics, in groups called colonies. It's members work together to feed and support hungry babies. Because of it's scarey appearance and nocturnal behavior these powerful totems have become omens of doom and fear. Humans fear death, and all those things associated to death, because of our true fear of changing. When bats fly into your life it's time to stop and look at what needs to be released. Bat can show you your darkest secrets, deepest emotions, and true fears. Bat lives within the womb (a cave) of Mother Earth and can show us how to rebirth ourselves everyday. This natural life cycle of life and death (or Shamanic Death) is what allows us to release our old self and structures. Let us rejoice the Bat with our new birth and move into our new paths of life.

Bee

Bees, like so many insects, have amazing focus. I sometimes think they are entirely nothing but focus. But it is just what they are. From birth they are part of a structure that makes a greater whole. They work they do is part of a great effort to support the hive. This organization and selflessness is very hard for humans to grasp. But it is this support network that Bee invites us to become part of.

When Bee catches your attention it is asking you to examine your support network. Do you need to call mom? Do you need support of your spouse? Does somebody need you? And know that in supporting others you are in turn supported. It is all part of the network of the hive. What is your role; protector, provider, or nurturer? We of course take all these roles from time to time. But find out what you need to do in the moment and fulfil that role. See how you provide and see how you are supported.

Butterfly

The sun is warm on our faces, the flowers are in full bloom, and the butterflies dance around our heads. Each time we witness a butterfly gracefully drifting by on the wind it up lifts our souls and reminds us to breathe. Butterflies reflect all of Mother Nature's colors. If a particular colored butterfly keeps making an appearance in your life, find what the meaning in those colors. Look close, often it's a mix of colors (like the common white butterflies in our gardens, their pale yellow too). Butterflies also remind us that life has a certain order. A butterfly starts its' life as an egg, hatches into a caterpillar, cocoons into a chrysalis, and then finally is transformed into a butterfly. When we look at our own lives we often find projects, spiritual development, and understanding follows this same process. For example when we discover ourselves and start to understand our own spiritual meaning we start as an egg. Then we become ravenous reading all books, taking any classes, and meeting new people. We then hit a period where we go within, isolating ourselves from the world as we process and transform our old beliefs into new ideas. Finally we hatch as a butterfly into the world with a new understanding/insight to share with the world. So next time you find your own progress slow or stuck, let butterfly help you complete your stages. Then you can fly free as a butterfly.

Cat

The cat has been a faithful pet, companion, healer, and God for over a thousand years. Cats come in all sizes and colors and find comfort in many of our homes. If left to their own survival however; a cat will revert back to it's wild cat roots. Cats can teach us that although we may live mundane workdays, we can have a wild side that parties on the weekends. Because cats have been living along side humans for so long we share our history. This gives us the ability for past lives and ancestor connection. A cat's eyes are very sensitive to light, which helps them to hunt at night, and also allows them to see into the astral realm. This is why they can see spirits and fairies. Cats have also been noted for their grace and balance. This same grace can be applied to our daily lives when we ask cat medicine for help. So next time you'd like to make an appearance think of a cat walking in to that party, and all their heads will turn!

Chickadee

Chickadee is one of the first birds to come to a new bird feeder. Their curiosity for their environment gives us courage to explore our own. Their size is equaled to a golf ball, but this does not stop them from standing up to bigger birds, traveling with different species, or trying a new crumb of food. They show us size matters not when we tap into our inner strength. Chickadees have one of the most varied songs (15 different sounds) and often appear to us when we need help telling the truth from fiction. If you witness a Chickadee when listening to advice, or sharing from your heart know the truth was spoken. Let Chickadee show the truth within your heart, so that you can trust your actions in life.

Cougar

Cougars, also known as Mountain Lions and Pumas, are much like the wolf in that it is the guardian of the wilderness and keeps balance within the herds of prey animals. Cougar teaches as the ability to stalk and pounce on what we want in life. Cougar is an ambusher, meaning he waits for just the right moment to attack. Timing is something we all must learn or we can get too tired before we've reached our goals. Cougar also brings live prey to her cubs to practice hunting. Knowing when to lead and when to follow is important lesson of life. Mountain Lions also live in a many different habitats. Their strong legs and long tails allow then grace and balance when leaping from trees and rocks. They can leap over 40 feet. Courage to take leaps of faith is what allows us to take risks and try the impossible. Let Cougar jump into your life today and feel the power and confidence fill your heart.

Dolphin

When the days are grey and cloudy and we think of warm tropical shores and the gentle sea, images of dolphins playing in the water always come to mind. Dolphins are the embodiment of play and freedom in water. Dolphin often visits us in dreams or in thoughts when we need to remember to breathe. Dolphin teaches us the importance of our breath. By breathing more deeply into our bodies we can reduce stress, heal the body, and alter our state of mind. These trance or meditation times are when Dolphin guides us to new lands. Dolphin is a wonderful friend when learning to navigate the astral world. Dolphin also uses sound to "see" in the water through eco-location. Again showing us the importance of finding truth and life through what we say to others. So let Dolphin help you today by showing you freedom of your spirit in the ocean or even your bath tub.

Dragonfly

Dragonfly is an insect that makes an impression when you see it. They fly very very fast and have the ability to manipulate their four wings independantly. It makes for a sensation to see them fly. They can move in any direction at will. And when they want to take off...wooosh, they are gone.

Dragonfly teaches us to observe what we see in the moment make the best of it. They are very agressive predatory insects. The find food and catch it in flight. We admire the Dragonfly for its colors which make its existance mythic and so when we see Dragonfly should take a moment and observe those colors. Take them in and see what they bring us. What colors were they? What do those colors mean to you? Be sure to take that moment and look, before our Dragonfly guide moves on.

Eagle

Eagle is a symbol for the USA, representing our love of freedom and independence. Many cultures over the world have used the symbol of an eagle to show their bravery and courage. But why is the Eagle so powerful to us? Of all the creatures on Earth, Eagles show us our ability to soar in our spirit. This predatory bird has sharp eyes and strong talons. It uses it's 8 - 10 foot wing span to circle in the air to search for food. It's ability to fly higher then most birds shows us it's connection to the heavens above. Many Native stories tell of the dieing eagle flying to the sun to be burned and falling to Earth in clean water to be reborn. This act of being reborn shows us our own need to let go of old ideas and wounds and to start life in a new way. Eagle also shows us to fly for our dreams and visions and that our hearts will always be free. Call for the Eagle spirit to uplift your life. Let Eagle guide you to your dreams and let go of the outcome. Eagle will help you fly high into Great Spirit's loving arms.

Elephant

When we think of stealthy animals in nature we don't often think of an elephant. Elephants however walk on padded feet letting them tip-toe softly onto the ground. Elephant appears to us in life to remind us to walk softly but in style. Their large ears, used to cool them in the hot sun, also acts to receive low vibrations of communication. Elephants can teach you to receive hidden messages from spirit guides and to hear the truth in your own voice. With their gentle touch they can push over most 50 feet trees, showing us strength can be gentle in our lives. So let Elephant connect you to the ancient memory of Mother Earth and your own inner knowledge.

Goldfish

Goldfish brings life to a home in a tank or to the garden in a pond. These carp fish have become a favorite pet to many and still imbue the same magik as when they swam in muddy waters. They show us the ability to be beautiful and graceful in even the most dirtiest of places. Their gold bright colors remind us of life and riches, and can bring luck to our homes. Let goldfish show you how to shine bright and beautiful, so life becomes rich and abundant.

Goose

Mother Goose tales taught us as kids to have good manners, never follow strangers, and not to loose our mittens. Goose carries the energy of family and parenthood. Helping us to find strengthen in raising our children no matter what kind of family dynamic you have. Goose also is the keeper of folk tales, myths, and legends. Goose quills were often used to scribe the tales of old, connecting us to the past and forgotten history. Goose also gives us new adventures, much like the brave knight who went out into the world for new insights. With the New Year and a new adventure beginning why not ask goose for help and ensure fun adventures in life? Float as a Goose in the stream of life. Go with the flow is this birds motto.

Ladybug

Lady bugs, a type of winged beetle, is a gardener's friend in keeping other more harmful bugs out of the flower beds. Lady bugs with their bright red shells and black spots carry the magik of rebirth. Red and black are the colors of thoughts and manifestation. Often Ladybug will appear to us when we have an opportunity to succeed, grow, and start something new. All of the beetle family transforms from larvae to adult, showing us we too can transform our lives. Ladybugs can consume large quantities of aphids and other harmful bugs which eat and destroy plants. When we garden with more conscientious we can be aware of this balance within the garden. Allowing nature to show us how it takes care of the pests, without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals. So as Summer begins to fade into Fall watch for Ladybug to fly into your life. Let Ladybug consume your unwanted fears and encourage new adventures.

Mole

Our next guide comes from the great down under, ground that is. Mole teaches us how to find ourselves even through the toughest of environments. Mole moves easily through the Earth. Mole is one with the Earth Mother in this way and has passage through her memory. Mole does it using vibrations. They find things underground by the vibrations that they make. (bugs, worms and the like) They also steer clear of danger by the vibrations that they make. (lawnmowers and dogs for example)

Mole does not spend much time in worrying about what is to come and lives mostly in the moment. Indeed Mole's eyes are not good for seeing. Mole relys on what he feels and reacts appropriately. If Mole has shown himself to you try to honor him by reacting by your feelings. What action feels right to do, rather than what seems the right thing to do. Do this and see where Mole takes you.

Mouse

Mouse teaches us the power in small things. The mighty lion of the plains was paralyzed by a thorn in his paw. No matter what the king of the jungle did he could not relieve the pain caused by such a small thing. So small in fact the lion could not even see it. Others that knew lion came and tried to help him, but the thorn was so small none could find it. The mouse came to the lion's aid and removed the thorn. Mouse had a different perspective and could see what was happening when others could not. Allow mouse to guide you and help see things from a different perspective. What thorn will you remove?

(Raven's Take) Mouse medicine is one of the strongest amongst our animal allies, but is often over looked because he's small. He may not have the voice of the wolf, the eye of the eagle, or the stamina of a humpback whale. Mouse does have the ability to squeeze into impossible spaces, find all that is hidden between the walls, and see what others over look. Mouse can teach us to see the world in great detail. Because mice can only see a few inches from their noses, their world is very close to their faces. This view of life allows us to slow down and look at a situation or project from all the details verses the final out come. Mice can also squeeze anywhere their heads can fit (in most cases the size of a quarter or smaller) showing us that nothing is impossible if we look at all the possibilities. So let mouse come into your heart today. Let him show you the forgotten details and new possibilities that dance around your feet.

Owl

Owls are a powerful symbol in the animal guide world. Many North American Native cultures are downright afraid of owl because of a connection the owl has to the dead. Dead relatives, ancestors or a symbol of death coming to your doorstep. Perhaps, but what is death when you see owl? It means a change is coming to you. A part of your life will die so that you may release it. So focus on what it is that you would like to change when you see owl. What part should die? What part of you do you need to bury and be done with so you may move on? Do not fight or be afraid of this change for it is the natural order of thing. Thank owl for his clarity when you see him and prepare for change.

Racoon

Raccoons like many of the hidden urban wildlife has adapted to living with humans. They know our habits and daily routines so that they can show up on garbage day and know when you put out the dog's dinner. Their cleverness and adaptation is why they're at home in our neighborhoods or mountain campsites. They remind us to try something again and again and again til it works. They also show us the importance in working in groups. Often as one is lifting off the trash can lid they will leave a look out by the back door. They honor their guard by giving him dinner too. This seasoned leader is often the oldest and teaches the others all the tricks he's learned over the years so they too can find food for themselves. Raccoon reminds us the importance of teaching others to do for themselves. Empowerment of others allows each of us to feel needed in a group and valued. Finally the most noticeable mark of the raccoon is their mask which is why they're often given the nick name of ‘little bandit'. Masks are a why for us to try on another persons shoes. This is why Halloween is so special with so many fun people we can pretend to be. But when Raccoon has appeared to you take a chose look at what mask or type of person you may be pretending to be. Are you being more then you are to impress a person, friend, or boss? Raccoon will help show you when to use your cleverness and when to put the mask away.

Rat

Rats are awesome. Let us just start with that. Rats have a certain gift for getting what they want. Rats can seek out and find what most cannot. They have the intelligence to figure out mazes and the nose so they may lock onto their desire. Rats can fit in places where most others cannot. As long as there is an opening large enough to get their head through the body will follow. And since Rat's teeth are constantly growing, gnawing through something as trivial as iron pipes makes Rat's desire an unstoppable force.

Rat is honored by the Chinese as the first animal on the Chinese zodiac. How did Rat get to such a lofty position? Simple, he won the race, on the back of ox, and shoved cat into the drink, but hey he won didn't he? This is the sort of level of tenacity that Rat possesses. If Rat has come into your life expect great things to come from your focus. Be sure not to alienate those that would help you as you pursue your desire. I do not think Cat has forgiven Rat for his over enthusiastic slap on the back that caused Cat to loose the race. Or at least that is Rat's story and he is sticking to it.

Raven

Ravens are found all over the world in artwork and mythology. Whether the meaning of a Raven is good or bad depends on the people of that culture. Ravens have been regarded as omens of death, war, and bad luck to some, and creators of light, fire, magik, and change to others. Like any change within our lives, it depends on how you look at it. Change is the ending of one thing (death) and the beginning of something new (creation). It is no wonder we fear Ravens when they spiritually help us to let go of our obstacles so we can find new magik in our lives. Ravens teach us to find our true meaning of self. Helping us to bring forward our imagination and resourcefulness into our daily life. When we reach deep into our self, know our truth, and bring it into the light, this is powerful magik. In the Pacific Northwest Native mythology Raven is the bringer of light to the people. Just as Raven brought the stars, the moon, and the sun to us all; let Raven bring you to your own light and fly free into the magik of creation.

Red Tailed Hawk

As we drive down the freeway our journey is often watched over by Hawks. They have adapted to our fields and sprawling freeways looking for opportunities of rodents and birds. Hawks hold a special awe in our hearts for their ability to soar in the heavens and to see all of life. Hawk helps us to reach new understandings by looking at the whole situation and then deciding what to do. Their vision can see both the distant mountains and the small rabbit in the field. This ability reflects our own need to see the small details in a project, but not loose focus of the larger goal. When Hawk flies into your life, look for an opportunity in your current situation. What are you seeking at this moment? Is this opportunity ready now and you just needed to jump on it? Hawks change their color as summer fades to fall. The Red Tail Hawk will turn from dark brown to a lighter tan, flecked with cream. So as our days grow shorter, and the chill fills the night, ask Hawk to guide your visions and bring new opportunities in life.

Robin

Robin has long been associated with Spring and the rising sun. "Early Bird" as it often is referred, shows us how this totem can help us get things done first. The changing of the males' beak color from brown to yellow tells us when the season of Spring has arrived. This also tells us when to expect new projects to begin or opportunities to present themselves. Robin's song is recongnized anywhere and reminds us the power of our voice to change our environment. This power of song can be used to set boundaries, heal, and lighten the emotional mood. Robins also have a strong connection to the color of red from their breast color. Red is connected to sex, aggression, power, root charka, manifestation, and life.

Snow Leopard

Snow Leopards are tricky creatures. They are big cats but are not especially big. They are very puffy however and have oversized tails and paws which are developed for their environment. They also have a fur coat that is perfectly adapted for their environment. A still Snow Leopard in near impossible to see. Combine that with the fur around their paws that muffle sound and you have a big cat that you cannot see or hear.

People of India have a few legends surrounding Snow Leopards. They usually have themes of an individual seeking out the cat or being captured by the cat and then taken to the Snow Leopard's cave. When a rescue arrives the person is never found but a new Snow Leopard has magically appeared. Snow Leopard asks you to enter the cave and explore. What will you find? What will you deal with? What will you do? Will you escape unscathed? Or will you be transformed? What will be learned? These answers are only found when journeying through the high mountains with the Snow Leopard.

Skunk

Skunk is such a wonderful guide for us, if we can come to accept it. Skunks have the unique trait of having turned their musk gland into a defensive weapon. The Skunk can project its musk as a squirt gun like stream or as a kind of mist. The common knowledge is that the musk is intolerable pretty much every species out there. The lesson that Skunk tells us is all about boundaries and working with those that we choose to work with. Because if you do not want to work with them Skunk helps show us how to drive them away!

Skunks are very comfortable wherever they are, they project a kind of calm and confidence. It is only when they feel threatened that they begin to assume a defensive posture. So when you are working with skunk and are comfortable with someone and want to work with them you can develop a charm that will attract. A sort of irresistable charisma that everyone is curious about and wants to get to know. And when you need to seperate a little and feel boxed in you can easily generate the space you need.

Spider

With a bump in the night, a howl from the woods and a terrible scream our haunted houses are not complete without a touch of cobwebs. Nothing seems more alien from humans then spiders. With their eight eyes, eight legs, and ability to live almost anywhere (especially my basement) spider has been a target of horror movies and night time fears. Spiders, with so many multiples of eight, are linked to fate and density. They can spend a day weaving their web and if it doesn't work untie it and let it float away. Spider can teach us to weave our lives, but we always have the ability to re-weave what we don't like. Spider in Native American myth and lore wrote the alphabet teaching the people to use words and writing. Spider can help you with your poses and poems creating new ways of expressing yourself. Creativity is always available when spider comes into your life. So save an eight-legged friend today and let Spider create something wonderful in your life.

Squirrel

Squirrels have learned to share the human urban world. They can quickly adapt to any environment and learn how to get food even from the most guarded bird feeder. Squirrel magik teaches us to be resourceful within our lives. To try every angle to obtain our desire. Squirrel also teaches us that even the most simplest of work can be done in joy. As they search for food and mates they still have fun teasing the neighborhood cat and to try your new crocus bulbs. As Spring approaches they also remind us to clean out unwanted debris from last year (past relationships) and make room for new life.

Turtle

With all the changes on our Earth at the moment, it did not surprise me when Turtle walked forward to be this months' guide. When life is chaos and we are rushing from one project to another, this is the time we need to be grounded to Mother Earth the most. Turtle walks with purpose and intention because she walks on our Mother Earth. She hears Earth's heart beat and carries the wisdom to feel this beat. Turtle teaches us to SLOW DOWN. Just like the children's fable of the rabbit and the tortoise, we learn we will make the finish line just the same as the rabbit, but with less stress. Turtle also reflect the secrets of the moon with 13 scale plates on her back that represent the 13 moon cycles of the year. Turtle, with her beautiful shell reminds us we need to take our protection with us, wherever we may need to travel to. Home and safety is always around us, this way we can be free to travel into any adventure.

Wolf

Wolf is a very special guide for me. Whenever I am lost Wolf helps find my way. It showed me the way to my mate. It shows me the way to guides. It is a protector of me and my family. Strong, loyal and fierce we must remember that Wolf is man's brother. We were put on this land to learn from Wolf. And so here I honor and remember my brother.

Wolverine

A while back I heard that Wolverines had a nickname amongst the Pacific NW Natives; "Little Irritable One." So misunderstood are those who do nothing but completely pursue passion. Wolverines are a fierce and passionate guide. They set objectives and achive them. Wolverines have been known to chase bears, cougars, and wolves away from their kills. Once a Wolverine sets its mind to something not much will stop it. Even when bitten by said bear the Wolverine can move around in its own skin to attack the one who has bitten him. A simple word for Wolverine's drive is 'unstoppable.'

Wolverine can help you set your intentions and goals. Focus on your desire and ask Wolverine to step in and help provide you with the power to see your goals to light. But be sure to ask for Wolverine to be nice to you and ask for gentleness. Which Wolverine is perfectly capable of providing.

If you find yourself getting a little hungier than usual when working with Wolverine you should feed yourself. Wolverines eat a tremendous amount of food to fuel their bodies. And Wolverine uses that fuel. Very little is wasted. Collect your resources and use them. Extract what you need from your fuel and get your desire!