The (Real) Journey Home, Ep. 1- A Pause for Station Identification

Hey, gang! Welcome to my life – where anything is possible and nothing is as it seems. I’m Freedom and I’ll be your host, coming at you from within the depths of Geistopia. 

DOC: Velcum To My Life ees a prochect, un experiment in Life unt ART. A living storyboard, if you will. Its premise ees zat life ees experiential, unt zat you can, unt do, experience ze life you choose. It ees based on Ze Veel of Life unt Ze ARTs for Ze New Millennium as life building tools. Ja, it’s true! 

WALT: Welcome to my Life is a Geist…House Players Production, in association with the Center for Creative Inspirationalism. JustUs Productions, the parent company, would like to give a ‘Shout-Out’ to the following for their ongoing, and oft-times unknowing, inspiration and support:

Princess Cuddlebug

Princess Sunshine

Company

The Shaman

The Pillar

F’n Bob

The Entire Putt-Putt-Putter Clan

The Warden

FaeriePrincess

Professor Siggy Chong

Sparky Wentz-eclaus

The VanMan and General Ralph Glossop, and Craze (may they R.I.P.)

The Messengers of The Galactic Federation

 Looch

BJ & The Bull

Ace

Bert-On

The Baker of the Cornbread

Andy Pandy

The Mudder

Wilson

Zason

St. Diane & You (5)

Brother John & Sister Jen

The Bee Man

Spooky Queen

Boom-Boom Snuffbox

The Nameless One

Tim-Bo

The Mayor & The Turkey Man

The Rox

PDT

Sir Richard Slouch

The Wix-ians

The Socialite

The Village of Idiots

Piz-Niffer

Dancing Queen

Downtown Encyclopedia Brown

Chicken Witch

Dick Pointer

Soup, the Son

The Legendary Pink Elephants

Baby-Mama Rabbit

Wisconsin Belle

The Babes

Aaaand, of course, a very generous sponsor who (not-so-much) wishes to remain anonymous.

It is Sunday, July 27, Two-Thousand and Twenty-Jive. Time...Floating

Theme – Get Outta My Head

Lesson – Focus on G-d [good]

Observation – Music Soothes the Savage Beast

The Post

 Jesus, Lord Almighty, in Heaven.

WTF is happening in my life??

My life has always been riddled with some degree of challenge or chaos, but this past month has been absolutely insane. It is so way beyond me. Everything I have gone through in life and I have never encountered anything like this. It has been an intense and challenging journey on all levels.

It has been confusing, and frightening, and frustrating. The pressure has been on to pack up my whole life - a life for which I just finished laying the foundation. I basically started from scratch in this challenge. I had no plan in place before it hit. I had no place to go - for me or my stuff. I had no money to fund a move.

On top of that, I have trying to navigate myself through my mental, emotional, and spiritual spaces. There's been panic and fear and anger and frustration and so much more. My internal self has been in a frenzy and a haze trying to keep it all in check.

Then there's the list of address changes and updating I have to do - Post Office, Driver's License, Insurance, Disability, Assistance.

How do you update your address when you don't actually have one?

The journey has also been uplifting, inspiring, enlightening...even comforting in a sense.

I have had a thousand thoughts and worries about every step of this process. First it was Cuddlebug and The Kitty. Then it was where I would go and what I would do. Then it was finances. Then what about all my stuff? What about all these jobs I have in the works?

One by one, each has found an acceptable resolution.

Cuddlebug and The Kitty are going to Olde Geistopia. I am going to my car. I'm accepting an 'at least 3 months' time frame.' The stuff is finding its way to a storage unit. [Assuming that I can find the help to make it happen.] The finances are even balancing themself out. I will have the money for the storage unit around this weekend. I've made necessary arrangements to reduce my food spending. I'm looking ahead to straightening out The Mechanic. I'm even, currently, able to project a family trip Thanksgiving weekend.

I was concerned about getting it all out in time. I really don't know how I pull it off. However, I learned along my journey - while investigating other things - that at the end of 30 days if there is stuff that I could not get out but want, whoever takes possession of it is legally required to store it in a clean, dry space for up to 30 days.

I'm getting a large enough space that I can take most, if not all, of my crafting stuff, odd jobs and some metal. I can use the old Cave to work and fill in the gaps. So I don't have to lose that momentum.

Spiritually, things have been intense. There has been guidance since the moment I learned The Landlords decided to sell the house. The very first thing I heard was, "don't react." I've tried to carry that with me throughout. It's been a challenge.

The first like 9 days I spent in a Void like I haven't known before. A few days is one thing. 9 straight was a little tough. I couldn't function right. Yet everything was kind of moving along at it's own perfect pace.

There has been an energy of Lessons and tests. [And, of course, The Daemon has come out to play through it all.] One Lesson was in Faith. I had to detatch from outcomes and paths and accept that The Universe knows best and takes care of its own. So no matter where I end up or how things go, it will be the best thing for me and I will be OK.

The biggest test - and the thing that summoned The Daemon - has been Ego. That, I believe, is the reason for, "don't react." It's amazing how much Ego actually slips in to our situations. It has been a struggle to keep it in check. I've won some and I have definitely lost some. Most losses have been inadvertant. [Which is why I'm aware of how Ego can slip in so subtly.] At least one loss was a definite choice. Still, that choice led to an empowering moment personally.

On one hand, it sucks. I have finally come to a point where I have activated all areas of my life. I worked so hard and went through so much shit to get here. And now...POOF! On the other hand, I accomplished something no one ever thought I could do - myself included. And, it was a beautiful and incredible experience. Something no one can ever take away from me. I am so grateful to have had it.

I am certain that this is all part of The Plan. Year 3 of a 3 year plan. Everything is right on course as it is supposed to be. A good example is that I was given 3 markers to start - 07/21, 08/01 and 08/21. On 07/21 the house went under contract and we got our Notice to Quit.

The next marker is this coming Friday.

The trick is that I don't really know the course we are on. I realize it seems fairly obvious. But there is a vibe in the air. There's still an unknown in play. Things could shift.

I don't feel us leaving here. I can't see it. I've tried and tried. Even just today I had flashes of the future and autumn. It is completely unreasonable but it keeps happening. On top of that I am having these experiences that I can only describe as Deja Vu on steroids. Its more than having seen a moment before, It's more like having known that moment all my life and connecting to it at different points along the way.

I did take a moment to investigate a mortgage, Not an option at the moment. I did use what I learned to make a rent to own offer for consideration if this should fall through. Basically we would take over all financial obligations [we already cover most of them] and add some extra money. All they have to do is hold the deed until.

On other fronts - I have an upcoming show at The Theatre. Tarot and Reiki experienced a boom in the lastr week...and I have been put on to The Rabbit Hole once more. That is a definite long game but I am liking the journey so far.

Basically, only time will tell. My Plan for the moment is as follows:

Cuddlebug has to do some more arranging at Olde Geistopia. I can't get the storage unit until next weekend. I still have some tweaking to do in The Cave. So, all I can really do this week is try to work at packing up and organizing, seperating by - Geistopia, Storage, trash.

I will buy a few more totes and gather more boxes. I will move things to Olde Geistopia a little at a time as I go out to work.

Next weekend I can get the unit and as many more totes as I think we need. Then I have a total of 2 weeks until I am planning 'The Big MOve.' This is our last opportunity to get all the big and heavy stuff out - in particularly Cuddlebug's stuff. After that I will have 6-7 days to continue moving out what I can.

Other than that I am just taking each day as it comes and enjoying each moment that I have.

If you’re not already there, go to the Welcome to my Life Facebook page – WTML. Or the YouTube channel – WelcomeToMyLife08. You can also find me on Facebook under Rev. Matt. And there is the newer TikTok @WTML23

Wherever you are and whenever you are – Like, Comment, and Share – we’re on a Journey and it takes you to get there.

So, without hesitation, for now and for always, from here in Geistopia, this is your beloved Rev…

WALT: And Walt…

DOC:  Unt Doc…

JOHNNY: Aaaaand Johnny…

And those guys, saying, “Stay Tuned-In, Fellow Travelers,” and wishing you Peace, Love, Light…

WALT: And Freakishness, Baby.

The Totems & Archetypes

from Ted Andrews’ Animal Speak

All the ones I can think of since this began.

Bat – Transition and Initiation

Symbols of initiation and rebirth. Implies a loss of one’s faculties if unwary about changes. Also holds the promise of rebirth and coming out of the darkness. The breaking down of the former self through intense tests. It is a facing of your greatest fears – that it is time to die to some aspect of your life that is no longer suitable to you. You are being challenged to let go of the old and create the new. You may see some part of your life go from bad to worse. That which worked before may no longer. The ability to move to new heights. The piercing of new barriers and the opening to higher wisdom. Awakens ability to hear spirit. An increasing ability to discern the hidden messages and implications of other people’s words. Listen as much to what is not being said. Trust your instincts. A new beginning that brings promise and power after the changes.

Buffalo – Manifesting Abundance Through Right Action and Right Prayer

Uniting the mundane and the divine appropriately.  Abundance that is available if we know how to tap it. Combine our efforts with the divine. Both the mundane and the spiritual is necessary for manifesting. Groundedness. The path opens and flows easily. Not a time to push or force. Follow the easiest path. Law of Synchronicity. Things will happen in the time, manner, and means that is best for us if we allow. Do what we have to do and then let the events take their natural course. If you allow the natural flow to take you, you still end up at your at your destination, at an advantageous time, and you usually get some nice side trips along the way. How to work with that natural rhythm. Opportunities for abundance and increase. Honoring that which you seek? Remembering that the divine is essential in all things physical? Giving honour to yourself and to the efforts of others within your life? Show gratitude for what you already have?

Butterfly – Transmutation and The Dance of Joy

The process of metamorphosis should be studied closely. Make note of the most important issues confronting you at the moment. What stage of change are at in regards to them? You may have to examine and determine what you wish the outcome to be, and how best to accomplish it. Was a symbol of the soul. Was a symbol of conjugal bliss and joy. A symbol of change, joy, and color. There has long been an association in folklore between those of the Faerie Realm and butterflies. They remind us not to take things so seriously within our lives. They awaken a sense of lightness and joy. They remind us that life is a dance, and dance, though powerful, is also a great pleasure. Can be reminders to get up and move for if you can move you can dance. Look at how much or how little joy is within your life. Lighten up. Look for change. Don’t forget that all change is good. Reminds us to make changes when the opportunities present themselves. Transformation is inevitable. Growth and change does not have to be traumatic. It can occur as gently, as sweetly, and as joyfully as we wish.  

Cardinal - Renewed Vitality through Recognizing Self-Importance

They remind us that, regardless of the time of day or year, we always have the opportunity to renew our own vitality and recognize our own life roles. Whistles are often reminders to listen closely - to pay attention to what is blowing on the winds. Reflects that we should be listening to the inner voice (the feminine) more closely for our own health and well-being. Almost always reflects a need to assert the feminine aspects of creativity and intuition more strongly. Can reflect a need to b more careful about your diet, that what you are eating may be injurious to yourself and affecting your overall vitality. Reflects the rhythm of 12 that is going to become more predominant within your own life. Reflects lessons associated with responsibility and the recognition of the task at hand. May reflect past-life connections with the church, or even a reviving of more traditional religious beliefs, regardless of denomination. Remind us to add color to our lives, and remember that everything is of importance. 

Chipmunk – (from whatismyspiritanimal.com)

Chipmunks don’t really have a lot of enemies mostly because they’re clever enough to avoid troublesome situations; this creature is very adaptable and will live nearly anywhere that suits them, including under your patio. Being picky isn’t really in Chipmunk’s character makeup.

Similar to Squirrels, Chipmunk always prepares for seasonal shifts in food supplies by stashing some neatly away. They are diligent about preparing for the future and have more than one entrance and exit to their favorite hiding spots. Young Chipmunks depend on their mother for about six weeks. Even then, the energy level for Chipmunk is pretty perky. As Chipmunks eat nuts and acorns, they also have an important role to play in spreading seeds and spores.

Norse myths tell us that either a Chipmunk or Squirrel runs up and down the World Tree delivering messages to and from the Gods (Odin in particular). The symbolism here combines with the Chipmunk’s habit of chattering as if there is always something new about which to talk. Saga, a Goddess of history and bardic arts, also has a Chipmunk companion.

An Irish Goddess by the name of Medb is said to have this little guy as a sacred animal. Medb oversees matters of health, prosperity, sexuality, and fertility; this last attribute is one that fits Chipmunk very well. Females can have up to three litters a year with five pups in each.

Chipmunk is prolific as a way of offsetting a rather short lifespan of only about three years. As we observe Chipmunk Spirit in nature, it becomes evident that they are very curious. There is little that goes undetected by our forest friend. They also seem fairly determined to do things in their own manner and time. When courting or feeling threatened, they may let out a little chirp that sounds bird-like.

For the most part, Chipmunk is not aggressive. The only time they really seem to fight among themselves if there’s the perception that food lacks. As long as edibles are in ample supply, they get along with each other very well. Greed is a term that seems to have been left out of Chipmunk’s vocabulary.

Chipmunk Spirit Animal comes into our lives for various reasons. One might have to do with the way you communicate. Chipmunk is a chatterbox, but as a Divine emissary, his words are chosen carefully. It may be time to assess how much of your discussions with others are filled with “fluff” rather than meaningful meat.

Another lesson from Chipmunk Spirit Animal deals with the element of surprise and an awareness of our environment. If you watch, Chipmunks seem to be able to appear as if from thin air, then duck away again into another realm. He knows his pathways intimately and rarely gets lost. It may be that Chipmunk advises laying low and not showing your hand too soon. He also reminds you to have sound exit strategies.

If your life has become rather dull, Chipmunk Medicine will definitely pick things up. Chipmunk is always ready for an adventure and loves exploring. When he is part of your life, it’s most definitely time to come out of your shell and find new ventures or discoveries; this need not be a huge thing. Sometimes the simple wonders are the most exciting! Chipmunk’s excitement is very contagious. And if you haven’t been very social lately, prepare for a BIG change.

Chipmunk also represents energy and activity. You will never get anywhere in life by just standing still. It’s time to get up and engage life fully. Use this season as an opportunity for changing things up so that your personal spaces are light-hearted and comfortable in every way possible. Living joyfully is one of Chipmunk’s core virtues as is playing and having fun.

When it comes to your resources, Chipmunk sometimes appears as a sign that you need to better prepare for a period ahead when finances become tight. Set up a rainy-day fund. Make sure it’s safe and secure so you can use it come proverbial bad weather.

Finally, if you are starting on a particular magical study, Chipmunk may have been attracted to you because of that emerging energy. Chipmunk is a Spirit of wish fulfillment and will power; this Guide can help you move toward greater knowledge in your arts.

Crow - The Secret Magic of Creation is Calling

Magic and creation are potentials very much alive during the day. Alchemy. Represents “ingredients,” the initial state of substance - unformed but full of potential. A reminder of what an happen if we are not looking for magic and creation every day. Magic and creation are ‘cawing’ out to us every day. Health, home and respect. Working with crows can help you to see how the winds are going to blow into your life and how to adjust your own life flights. Finding a dead crow was a sign of good luck. Wherever crows are there is magic. Symbols of creation and spiritual strength. Look for opportunities to create and manifest the magic of life. They are messengers calling to us about the magic that is alive within our world everyday and available to us. 

Deer – Gentleness and Innocence – Gentle Luring to New Adventures

They have been able to adapt to every sort of habitat. Buddha is often pictured with a deer. Antlers are symbols of antennae, connections to higher forms of attunement. Look for new perceptions and degrees of perceptions to expand for as much as the next five years. Can indicate that there will be opportunities to stimulate gentle new growth increasingly over the next few years. Leads us back to the primal wisdom. A deer’s senses are very acute. Find increasing ability to detect subtle movements and appearances. Begin to hear what may not be said directly. Time to be gentle with yourself and others. A new innocence and freshness is about to be awakened or born. There is going to be a gentle, enticing lure of new adventures. Are you trying to force things? Are others? Are you being too critical and uncaring of yourself? An opportunity to express gentle love that will open new doors to adventure for you.

Dragonfly – The Power of Light

Inhabit two realms – water and air. The significance of these should be studied. There must be expressions of the emotional and the mental together. You may need some fresh air in regards to something emotional. You may need to gain new perspective or make a change. May even indicate that you are neglecting your emotions. Are you being too rational about everything? Are you not keeping the colors of emotion alive?

Goldfinch – Awakening to the Nature Spirits

Black and yellow are the colors of the archangel Auriel. Used to invoke that aspect of this being that oversees the activity of nature spirits – the faeries, elves, and devas. Usually indicates the awakening to the activities of those beings that are normally relegated to the realm of fiction. Can help you to deepen your perceptions so that you can begin to see and experience the activities of the nature spirits yourself. Awakening to that which is normally hidden from view. In those areas where they are found, you can also find the faeries and elves. Can help us connect with those nature spirits that can show us how to heal animals – wild and domestic. A reminder that nature is speaking to us constantly and that we should learn to listen and communicate with it from all levels.

Goose - The Call of the Quest and Travels to Legendary Places

A totem reflecting a stimulation of the childhood thrill and belief in stories and legendary places. These stories either reflected an imprint for this life or they may have even imprinted you with certain seed ideas. Also be a totem to aid you in communication especially through the use of stories. Individuals wishing to write - be it stories or anything - can facilitate this process by working with the goose as a totem. It will stimulate the imagination and help move you through creative blocks. Also a symbol of fertility and marital fidelity. It may reflect a need for more vegetables in the diet, and maybe even becoming a vegetarian for a while. It reflects an ability to move forward or backward. It reflects movement, and a call to the spiritual quest. Stirs our imagination and makes us want to seek out new worlds and dimensions. Calling us to follow them on the great spiritual quest. It speaks of the fulfilled promises that great quests bring. Epitomizes the mystery of migration. Reminds us that as any one individual mass his or her quest, it becomes easier for others to do so as well. Reminding us that we should not undertake any quest in life without having a full view of what it entails. In this way the journey is facilitated for others. Reflects an opening to new possibilities. New directions and new possibilities. Reflects an openness to new ideas. Usually indicates we are about to affix ourselves to a new path. Reflects great fertility that should be acted upon if growth is desired. Greater vision, physical and spiritual, will occur. Can reflect that you are about to break free of old childhood restraints and begin to come into your own. You can expect to have the imagination stirred towards new travels to distant places - whether in the body or mind. 

Groundhog – Mystery of Death without Dying – Trance - Dreams

The ability to get deep within an area of interest. A time when a new area of study is going to open up.  Two years to come to full fruition. Important to give definite signals to the boundaries you wish to have respected in your life. Death without Dying. A time of initiation. A symbol of opening fully to the Dreamtime. Increasing ability to develop lucid dreaming. Clarity and power of altered states will be amplified. Dreams will become more significant. Opportunity to explore deeper states of consciousness. Lessons associated with death and dying. Revelations about its process. Knowledge of metabolic control.

Hawk - Visionary Power and Guardianship.

Messengers, protectors and visionaries. Visionary power and leading you to your life purpose. There is a message coming. What you eat, you become. Kundalini. Childhood visions are becoming empowered and fulfilled. The ability to soar and glide upon the currents. Great Heights while still keeping your feet on the ground. Attacks by people who won’t understand you - attack your ability to soar. Teaching of higher expression of psychosis and vision. Beauty and harmony in moderation. Lead you to using your creative energy in manifesting your soul purpose. Hope and new ideas. A need to be open to the new or shows ways that you may help teach others to be open to the new. Be observant. Life is sending signals. Careful in expression. Comments and actions will be strong and powerful with the ability to tear and/or kill. 

Heron - The Call of The Quest and Travels to Legendary Places.

Reflects a stimulation of the childhood thrill and belief in legendary places. [The story(s) we most loved in childhood often reflect the life quest we have come to take upon us in this lifetime.] Can also aid in communication especially through the use of stories. Individuals wishing to write can facilitate the process by working with a goose totem. It will stimulate the creative process and help to move through creative blocks. Also a symbol of fertility and marital fidelity. May reflect a need for more vegetables in the diet. An ability to move forward or backward. Reflects movement. A call to the spiritual quest. It reminds us that as any one individual makes his or her quest, it becomes easier for others to do so as well. We should not undertake any quest in life without having a full view of what it entails. Opening to new possibilities. Affix ourselves to a new path. Great fertility that should be acted upon if growth is desired. Greater vision, physical and spiritual, will occur. Can reflect that you are about to break free from old childhood restraints and begin to come into your own. You can expect to have the imagination stirred toward new travels and distant places - whether in the body or in the mind. 

Hornet/Wasp – (from whatismyspiritanimal.com)

Wasp Spirit has tremendous power, symbolism, and meaning around the world. Take the Old Testament as an example. Wasp, in giant form, is mentioned several times, representing God’s efforts to keep foes out of Canaan. Africans look to Wasp as representing evolution and our ability to take the reins of control in our lives. Ancient Europeans talk of how Wasp plays a role in pollination, so they symbolize fertility.

When a Wasp enters your home, he brings a warning. You will have a disagreeable guest who has nothing good in mind. They are tricky, so beware a sting; This type of predictive symbolism for Wasp isn’t unusual. Wasp seems to be a harbinger of danger in various forms. Additionally, folklore tells us that Wasp predicts the weather. Low hornets’ nest means a snowy, stormy winter. A high nest means a mild Winter with little precipitation..

Horse - Travel, Power, and Freedom

Associated with burial rites and birth. Associated with appeal and persuasiveness. Symbols of freedom. Powers of divination. Can express the more magickal side of humans. Can represent movement and travel, or maybe it showed up to help you with movement. Symbol of desire - especially sexual. May be time to examine aspects of travel and freedom in your life. Feeling constricted? Need to move on or let others move on? Time to assert your freedom and your power in new areas? Doing your part to assist civilization in your environment? Are others? Are you using what this civilization has given you? New journeys. Teach you how to ride into new directions to awaken and discover your own freedom and power. 

Owl - The Mystery of Magic, Omens, Silent Wisdom, and Vision in the Night

Symbol of the feminine and the night. Ties to fertility and seduction. Bird of magic and darkness, of prophecy and wisdom. Symbolically associated with clairvoyance, astral projection and magic, both black and white. Hints of the light of the sun, alive in the dark of night. Meditation on this alone will reveal much about the magic of Owl within your life. Will be able to see and hear what others are trying to hide. What is not being said. See what is hidden or in the shadows. Detect and pinpoint the subtleties. Unique ability to see into the darkness of others’ souls. And life. Their medicine can extract secrets. If your neck is stiff and inflexible, you are hindering your perceptions to a great degree. Often reflects that you were born very perceptive - with a vision of others that you may or may not have recognized or acknowledged. Unique ability for seeing into the eyes and souls of others. Keep silent and go about your business. Eliminate those aspects that are not beneficial and unhealthy. 

Panther – Re-building One’s True Power

A symbol of ferocity and valor. They have over 500 voluntary muscles that they can use at will. It reflects the ability to do a variety of tasks at will. As a whole panthers are loners (solitary) although they do associate with others, they are most comfortable by themselves or within their own marked territory. Those who have a panther totem will find greater power in silence as goals are pursued. Revealing too much or speaking too much about pursuits can counteract some of the effectiveness.  Those with a panther totem must learn to pace their work, allowing time to rest and play. They must not push too hard or too far on any one task. If they do, they are more susceptible to imbalances. In times of trouble – in any environment – those with panther totems are often the first and the fastest to respond, and especially in the work environment they respond effectively to deadlines and pressures. Anyone who aligns with the panther will develop greater depth of vision – of their life, of events, of other people. This is more than just psychic sight. It is inner knowing. They should truest their thoughts and inner visions (imaginings) for there is probably a strong foundation in reality. To those with whom the panther links comes the ability to develop clairaudience, to hear the communications of other dimensions and other life forms. Those with a panther totem will find their own sensitivity to touch increasing. Rather than holding and “reading” an object’s vibrations through the hands, placing it against one’s cheek or forehead will bring strong impressions. The arrival of the panther initiates a time of awakened sensuality and passion, two powerful tools of the feminine powers. The lunar cycle most powerful is The Dark of The Moon through the New Moon. Those with a panther totem who are angered will not confront another individual head on – and are better off not doing so. They must stalk patiently, waiting until close enough to strike strong and hard. They don’t play when they hunt. These individuals will go for the throat, so to speak. Because of their sensitivity, individuals with the panther as a totem know instinctively how best to attack if placed in such a position. – and they can do so lethally whether in defense or in response to anger. Because of this natural ability, individuals with this totem must learn to temper their responses, or they may unintentionally wound others more deeply than they mean to. The black panther has the greatest mysticism associated with it. It is the symbol for the life and power of the night. It is often a symbol of darkness, death, and rebirth from out of it. When the black panther enters your life as a totem, it awakens the inner passions. This can manifest in unbridled expressions of baser powers and instincts. It can also represent an awakening of the Kundalini. The panther always brings a guardian energy to those to whom it comes. The panther often signals a time of rebirth after suffering and death on some level. This implies that an old issue may finally begin to heal, and with the healing will come a reclaiming of power that was lost at the time of wounding. Symbolizes moving from mere poles of existence to new life without poles or barriers. The panther is a symbol of awakening to the heroic quest. The heroic tales tell us that no matter the depth of degradation – whether self-inflicted or inflicted from outside forces – there is always promise of light and love to lead us back. When panther enters your life, the path leading back is about to begin. Dionysus had to overcome many years of wandering, plundering, destruction and suffering before he could take his place within the heavens. His is the lesson of overcoming negative tendencies and sufferings inflicted on ourselves by ourselves, or by others, to obtain out divinity. We must recognize and learn the transforming nature of the sexual energies and how to direct them consciously. This often means we may have to face offending malignancies of our life, those aspects of ourself or our life that we have painted over, glossed over, shoved to the back of the closet or pretended didn’t exist. Sometimes this means we must suffer the loss of what we think we love most. The panther holds the promise of rebirth and guardianship throughout. It is the symbol of power reclaimed from whatever darkness within our life has hidden it. The panther is the promise that whatever is lost will be replaced by that which is greater, stronger, and more beneficial. There awakens within the individual on this path and with the panther as a totem an ability to cause people to see and think as you desire them to. Like the panther, you can blend into your surroundings with ease and to whatever degree you desire. It is a symbol of mastery over all dimensions. One who can become a jaguar [panther] is shorn of all cultural restrictions. The alter ego is free to act out desires, fears, aspirations. The panther marks a new turn in the heroic path of those to whom it comes. It truly reflects more than just coming into one’s own power. Rather it reflects a reclaiming of that which was lost and an intimate connection with the archetypal force behind it. It gives an ability to go beyond what has been imagined, with opportunity to do so with discipline and control. It is the spirit of imminent rebirth.

Rabbit - Fertility and New Life

Often seen as an animal that can lead one unknowingly into the Faerie realm. A symbol for sexuality and fertility. Usually, you will begin to see a cycle of 28 days beginning to manifest in your life. Those with rabbit totems will see movement occur in their life in varying degrees of hops and leaps. It won’t be steady step-by-step movement. The leaps and hops do not usually take more than the cycle of The Moon (28 days) to occur. Plan for possibilities. May indicate the need to do some more planning or review those you have already set in motion. You do not want to box yourself into a corner. Important not to foreshadow your moves. Learning to shift from freezing to great speeds will aid in your success and enables you to take advantage of opportunities that may present themselves for brief moments. May need to examine the kinds of food being consumed. For the greatest health and well-being, a vegetarian diet, even if only temporary, will strengthen and heal. How to recognize the tides of movement within your life. This in turn will enable you to become even more fertile in your life. 

Mouse - Attention to Detail. 

It is either time to pay attention to details, or an indication that you cannot see the forest for the trees. You may be getting so locked into details that you forget the big picture. Are you taking care of the trivial, yet necessary, things of life? Are you getting so lost in big dreams that you are neglecting other aspects of your life? Are you becoming so focused on one or two activities that you are neglecting other opportunities? Are you missing what is right in front of you? Is there something obvious that you are missing or need to focus on? Are you trying to do too many things at once and therefore scattering your energies? Mouse can show how to pay attention to detail; how to attain the big things by working on the little things. Lessons associated with attention. 

Raven - Magic, Shapeshifting, and Creation.

Bird of birth and death; mysticism and magic. Messenger of the great spiritual realm. Bring forth life and order. Can help you shape shift your life or your being. Knowledge of how to become other ‘animals’ and how to understand their language. Teach how to stir the magic of life without fear. Strong creative life force. Can be used to enter The Void and stir energies to manifest what you most need. Expect Magic. Somewhere in your life, magic is at play. Activates the energy of magic, linking it with your will and your intentions. Teaches how to take that which is unformed and give it the form you desire. 

Robin – Spread of New Growth

You can expect new growth to occur in a variety of areas of your life – not just one. Connected to the Kundalini. Reflects its activation in a manner that will stimulate new growth in all areas of your life. Fights over territory are usually in song. Physical confrontations are more symbolic without injury. Reflects a need to sing your own song forth if you wish new growth. Any confrontations or hindrances are more show than actual threats, so go forward. Powder-blue egg. A color that is often used to open the throat chakra in humans. Reflects the innate ability of those with this totem to assert the will force to create new growth in his/her life. Help you in this process. May reflect you have been doing so inappropriately or ineffectually. Robin will show you how to do it successfully. 

Snake – Rebirth, Resurrection, Initiation, and Wisdom

Symbol of transformation and healing. Also alchemy and healing. Sexual/creative life force. Kundalini. Compassion, clairvoyance and charm. Lessons of forgiveness, superstitiousness, and possessiveness. Wisdom and understanding. Birth and death. Transmutation. Are you needing to make changes, but aren’t for some reason? Are you trying to force change too quickly. Are you striking out at people and shouldn’t? Are you not striking and should? What is needing to be healed? What opportunities are surfacing that you need to strike out for and take advantage of?

Spider – Creativity and the Weaving of Fate

Maya, the weaver of illusion. Grandmother, link to the past and the future. Mysticism of the geometric form of the figure 8. Symbol of infinity. The Wheel of Life. Teaches you to maintain a balance – between past and future, physical and spiritual, male and female. Everything that you do now is weaving what you will encounter in the future. Rhythms. Creative sensibilities. The past always subtly influences the present and future. Spiral shape, the traditional form of creativity and development. We are the center of our own world. “Know thyself and you shall know the Universe.” Keepers and writers of our own destiny, weaving by our thoughts, feelings, and actions. The magic and energy of creation. Assertiveness of that creative force. , keeping the feminine energies of creation alive and strong. Links with the past and future. Are you moving toward a central goal or are you scattered and going in multiple directions? Is everything staying focused? Are you becoming too involved and/or self-absorbed? Are you focusing on others’ accomplishments and not your own? Are you developing resentment because of it – towards yourself or them? The teacher of language and the magic of writing. Death and rebirth. A lunar symbol. Maintain balance and polarity in all aspects of life. Through polarity and balance creativity is stimulated. A combination of gentleness and strength. Walk the threads between life and death – waking and sleeping – between the physical and the spiritual. How to express the creative energies. Don’t be afraid to employ it in seemingly inaccessible corners. Weave your creative threads in the dark and then, when the sun hits them, they will glisten with intricate beauty. Are you not weaving your dreams and imaginings into reality? Are you not using your creative opportunities? Are you feeling closed in or stuck as if in a web? Do you need to pay attention to your balance and where you are walking in life? Are others out of balance around you? Do you need to write? Are you inspired to write or draw and not following through? Remember that Spider is the keeper of the primordial alphabet. Teach how to use the written language with power and creativity so that your words weave a web around those who would read them.

Squirrel – Activity and Preparedness

The gray squirrel is the most common and the most enthusiastic. If confronted the gray squirrel will usually run away and avoid any fight. Predominant predators are foxes and raptors such as hawk or owl. Two litters per year. On their own in 12 weeks. All squirrels can be quite sociable. Individuals with squirrel totem learn better by doing than studying. Squirrels are also quite communicative. Examine your own activity and preparedness. Are you too active? Not active enough? Are not planning at all for the future at all – distant or near? Are you becoming too erratic – running to and fro and not accomplishing anything? Do you need to learn how to save and ration on any level – money, time, energy, etc? Are you afraid you will never have enough? Are you too hung up on collecting and accumulating? Are you gathering and not giving? Squirrels can teach us the balance within the circle of gathering and giving out. Masters at preparing. Also reminders that in our quest for our goals, we should always make time to socialize and play.

Swallow – Protection and Warmth for the Home and Proper Perspective

Communications may be more than what they appear. Are people saying things that actually have other meanings. Are we saying more than we realize? Do we need to listen more closely to what is being said and not be put off by who is saying it and what is said.It may even indicate that there is hidden wisdom in your own words or in the words of others.  Do you need to be more controlling of things in your life? Are there a lot of little irritations Are there a lot of little irritations that are accumulating? Are you being too much of a “pesky insect” to others? Are you becoming to engrossed in the petty mundane activities of life and not moving on? Are others doing so? Do not allow yourself to become to enmeshed in the mundane. The swallow will often show up when you are allowing yourself to rehash old issues and problems and not move on. If swallow has shown up, it may be telling you that you are weakest when trying to handle things from strictly a mundane perspective. Rise above it. You are weakest in solving problems when you do not distance yourself from them. Objectivity is the key.

Tick – (from spiritanimals.com)

People with the Tick totem can stay in one spot patiently, just waiting for the right opportunity to come by. When this opportunity does happen along, like the Roadrunner, they take quick action and seize the moment. Folks with this spirit animal totem know precisely when to move to be successful. They capture an opportunity when they see it even though they may not understand it. People with the Tick totem will also leap on faith without necessarily knowing where they will land. Furthermore, they trust in positive outcomes.

These folks also have a gift for getting under other people’s skin when they decide to. Their instinct unerringly will guide them to poke in precisely the right spot to get a rise out of someone.

Turkey – Shared Blessings and Harvest 

Symbol of all the blessings that the Earth contains, along with the ability to use them to their greatest advantage. Expect a year of harvest. Hidden wisdom and new seeds of growth; The inner vision; Ties to Mother Earth and all of its feminine energies and possibilities; Shared Blessings.

Vulture - Purification - Death and Rebirth - New Vision.

A guardian to the mysteries of life and death and the road of salvation. A coming time when you will be noticed more for what you do than how you appear. You will probably start to see auras and energies around people and things. Distributing one’s energy so that gravity does not weigh and hold one down - be it the actual gravity of the earth or the gravity of mundane situations and experiences. Associated with higher forms of discrimination. Assist you in developing your own sense of ‘smell’ that you can use effectively in all areas of your life. Aromatherapy. Changes in the digestive system. Pay attention to how you feel physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually after eating various foods. Acting rather than talking. May take as much as three months before an individual begins to truly move past the death stage to rebirth. A promise that the suffering of the immediate was temporary and necessary for a higher purpose was at work. Reflects that no matter how difficult the life conditions, rescue is imminent in your life. 

Wren – Resourcefulness and Boldness

If Wren has come into your life it is time to ask yourself some questions. Are you using the resources available to you? Are others? Are you not displaying enough confidence? Are you so wrapped up in daily worries that you are forgetting to sing? Are you not staying grounded? Are you not seeing the forest because of the trees? Are you not attacking your life with enough gusto? Wren holds the medicine for using what is available, and it can teach you the most effective ways for building within your own environment.