Controverscial.Com
Welcome
|
Controverscial.Com
Welcome
|
|
Animals and Witchcraft(The Witches Familiar)Squirrel
Totem Spirit & MedicineBy
Patricia J. Martin
Ah, Lammas! The earliest of the 3 Harvest Festivals,
when the first of our plantings have ripened and we are ready to begin reaping
what we have sown. Harvesting comes in all shapes and sizes, from physical plant
harvesting to harvesting ideas of the mind, and there is no one better than
Squirrel to show us the ins and outs of this worthwhile feat. Of gathering
and harvesting, and more, they are the masters. There are several types of squirrels, the most common being
the gray, red, black and flying squirrel. Each have their own special qualities
that make them unique, but all share the following spirit and totem medicine. Squirrels are members of the rodent family, and can often be viewed scurrying about with a nervous energy that makes us take note of their excellent skills of agility, dexterity and reflex. Bounding quickly but cautiously from tree to tree, or running precariously but adeptly over fence tops and telephone wires, squirrels are the acrobats of the animal kingdom. Learning how to maneuver risky situations without toppling is part of Squirrel medicine. Always having a goal in sight is another aspect of these furry creatures. Squirrels waste no energy, and thus find themselves full of it. But even with all the excess energy, they can suddenly be as still as a statue at a moment's notice. Knowing when to stop and listen, and knowing when to move along, is one of Squirrel's best teachings. Another is to remain curious, but cautious. Squirrel is always up for a challenge, and especially when they feel they will gain something through their efforts. But even with their adroitness and quick reflexes, a squirrel's curiosity and challenging personality can still get them in trouble. At times they fall prey mainly to hawks and owls. For those with Squirrel Totem, it is recommended they also read and study these two animals.
Squirrels are talkative and you'll find them frequently
chattering, but use of their body and bushy tails are other ways in
which they communicate. Those with Squirrel medicine will find their
own instincts and perception will increase, and would do well to pay close
attention to another's body language in order to read between the lines and gain
insight. Also, under the influence of Squirrel, you will learn that
you may need to quiet your own inherent chattering so that you can stop and
listen to what's truly being said. But chattering does have its place,
as squirrels also use it to send alerts to not only their brethren but to
all animals throughout their immediate vicinity. This shows Squirrel's strong
protective trait, and the person who finds Squirrel as their totem
will often emulate this same quality. When a squirrel hangs from the bark of a
tree by using their sharp back claws, they are not only more invisible
to predators but can be ever watchful. At other times, they will cling to the
tree and make a loud squealing noise while whipping their tails
around. These, too, are done to warn others of potential danger. The
flicking of a squirrel's tail is how they express emotion. The most notable trait of the squirrel is his excellence at
preparing for the future. At this time of year and for a few months to follow,
squirrels busy themselves scrounging and foraging for nuts, grains, seeds
and fruit, and will proceed to store much of it away by burying it where they
can dig it up later when needed. Meeting the future with readiness will be
much easier if you follow the way of the Squirrel. If you are a procrastinator
and leave things undone, Squirrel will help you to dissolve this trait. Although not enjoying strangers in their midst,
squirrels are nonetheless social and enjoy hours of carefree time wrestling
each other or even simply a dangling leafy branch. Here Squirrel teaches the
importance of balancing work and play, and will also help you
bring out your own playful side. They show the necessity of striving for a
balance between work and play in order to keep healthy in mind, body and spirit.
In conclusion, work hard to prepare for the future, and play equally as hard when enjoying the fruits of your labors. And Summer is an optimal time for both work and play! So enjoy the warmth. Enjoy the fruits. Enjoy your life! References:
Animal-Speak by Ted Andrews Squirrel, herself! © Patricia J. Martin, July 10, 2008
Pari lives on the East Coast, USA and is a Shamanic Witch.
|
