Symbolism and questions
I'm not exactly sure how to word this, but I'm going to give it a shot and see if it comes out legible.
I have always felt a connection to certain kinds of animals at certain times. The animals are the snake, deer, horse, lion/cat, and gryphon. My zodiac is Leo and I have always been independent as cats are wont to do.
According to Crystalinks:
"Cat's medicine is independence, curiosity, many lives, cleverness, unpredictability, healing, the ability to fight when cornered, seeing the unseen, and protection. He also represents love and can assist us in meditation. If Cat is your Power Animal, then you have magic and mystery in your life. You are independent and a free thinker. You probably feel energized at night. You will stay with a person or situation until it bores you, and then you're gone. You have a great talent for organizing things " ("Totem Animals." Crystalinks. http://www.crystalinks.com/totemanimals.html).
I can vouch for all of this, but not all the time. I am not always independent, unpredictable, or healing. I don't always feel energized at night and at times my room is utter chaos. As far as curiosity goes, my girlfriend will quickly point out that I just can’t take “because” for an answer. I have to know why something is the way it is, and I won’t settle for less. I often question people as to why they believe the way they do, not in an effort to attack them, but to better understand them and quench my curiosity. I have been known to come up with clever and witty thoughts and ideas. My friends would call me classy. I also have always stood up for what I believe is right (I would never make it in jail lol). I have magic and mystery in my life. I have always been a cat person and am “mom” to 5 cats currently. Call me the cat-lady-starter-kit.
“Lion's Medicine teaches us the magic of group interaction, of group energy. It also teaches us the secrets of silence and patience. Patience is to pay attention to detail. Lion suggests that we examine ourselves closely in order to understand our strengths and weaknesses, and to wait for the proper moment to act and take full advantage of a given situation. Learn from Lion the proper way to use power and strength. Stay calm and still, sure of your power. But if necessary, don't hesitate to fight for the things you are interested in.”
As I stated above, I always stand up for what I believe in, but I have the introspection to know my own strengths and weaknesses and to be able to thoroughly define what it is that I believe. I can have great patience, and then I can sometimes be the exact opposite
Moving on to the deer:
"Deer blend very well with their environment but are very sensitive to every sound or movement. Often twins, even triplets, are born in the spring. Does and bucks live in separate groups until the mating season. The white-tailed deer are moderately gregarious, and family members forage food together along with other family groups, giving the appearance of a large herd. People with Deer Medicine are often described as being swift and alert. They are intuitive, often appearing to have well developed, even extrasensory perceptions. Sometimes their thoughts seem to race ahead, and they appear not to be listening. Deer's medicine includes gentleness in word, thought and touch, ability to listen, grace and appreciation for the beauty of balance, understanding of what's necessary for survival, power of gratitude and giving, ability to sacrifice for the higher good, connection to the woodland spirits, alternative paths to a goal. The gentleness of Deer is the heart-space of the Great Spirit which embodies His love for us all. Deer teaches us to find the gentleness of spirit that heals all wounds, to stop pushing to get others to change and to love and accept them as they are. The only true balance to power is love and compassion" ("Totem Animals." Crystalinks. http://www.crystalinks.com/totemanimals.html).
I love the thought of balance and I strive to find balance in the things I do. I pick up on things quickly. I have an Intuitive personality and extrasensory perceptions. My girlfriend often complains that I seem to be miles away and I often think of things before others do. People start talking and I finish not only their sentences but their whole train of thought and add to it. Sometimes I am so engrossed in thinking about whatever it is, that I tune out others around me. I am not always gentle in word, thought or touch though. I have been a better listener. I have also always felt that whatever great and good that is in me is best felt and used by applying it to others in need-thus the sacrifice for the greater good. A great example of this is “my creed” that I posted as a blog. I have always loved the woodlands and mountains and I have been blessed to be surrounded by these deep, earthy woodlands here in East TN. I also look at all possible choices before deciding on a route-alternative paths to a goal. I am searching for the gentleness in my spirit that heals all wounds. I have been a warrior for quite a while and it’s growing tiresome. I have only begun to love and accept people as they are, starting with me.
“The horse shows up in almost every mythological writing, folklore, and reality. There is the mighty winged Pegasus, the eight-legged horse of the Norse god Odin, the stallions of the Hindu sun god, the stallions of Apollo, and so on. Many legends speak of the horse as being clairvoyant and able to perceive humans with magical powers. No single animal has given man the physical freedom of movement as the horse. If you are drawn to Horse, you feel a power in your spirit that is sometimes difficult to control. Horse is a symbol of loyalty and devotion, of unquestioning love and faith in his master. He says that you love to travel, and have more than a touch of gypsy in your soul. Horse is also your warrior spirit - the brave fighter who brings you safety in your journeys, both physical and metaphysical. Horse's medicine includes power, stamina, endurance, faithfulness, freedom to run free, control of the environment, awareness of power achieved with true cooperation, interspecies communication, expanding one's own potential abilities, friendship and cooperation, travel, astral travel, guardian of travelers, warns of possible danger, guide to overcoming obstacles.”
As a symbol of loyalty and devotion, I find these things in my relationships with others. I do feel a power in my spirit that becomes difficult to control at times. I seek freedom and limitlessness in all things I do. I can’t sit still in one place without feeling trapped or caged. I can’t even stay home for one whole day without going out somewhere. I have trouble sitting through a whole movie. I am also very in-tune with the warrior inside of me. I love traveling and astral travel was something that I achieved early on. I perceive myself as a guardian and protector. I try to warn others of possible danger and urge them to look at things from every perspective. I was also born under the year of the Horse in Chinese Astrology.
Gryphons have always been depicted as guardians of treasure. Gryphon’s themselves depict gold, as they represent the wealth of the sun at dawn, the gold in the east.” (http://gryphonguild.critter.net/mythology.html)
In symbolism, the griffin combines the symbolic qualities of both the lion and the eagle. It is the king of birds and lord of the air united with the king of beasts and lord of the earth.
Griffins are a symbol of the sun, wisdom, vengeance, strength, and salvation.
Even Christ's Ascension came to be associated with the griffin. The creature appeared as frequently in the applied arts (tapestries, the work of goldsmiths) as in heraldry. In the latter domain, Boeckler (1688) offered the following interpretation: "Griffins are portrayed with a lion's body, an eagle's head, long ears, and an eagle's claws, to indicate that one must combine intelligence and strength."
A very protective and vigilant Spirit Guide, the Griffin (also spelled gryphon or griffon) is a master of astral workings and a guardian of the Soul and Life-essence. It appears as a creature with the head & wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. (http://www.tween-the-shadows.com/magick/symbols_magick/griffons_gry...)
The Gryphon has been used in art and literature to symbolize the Gods, the sun, chariots, gold, Christ, Satan and more. For me the Gryphon combines the qualities of several other animals: the warrior, freedom, strength, power, bravery, confidence, protection, guardianship, and several aspects of my zodiac Leo. The colors gold, orange, yellow, and red and also the connection to the east and the sun itself. In my own translation, the qualities of Deer are applied to the Gryphon when I see that the Gryphon is a combination of intelligence and strength. We see a balance were both are in check. As far as birds go, I have felt a lesser relation to Owls and falcons (or Eagles):
Owls come in all sizes, from a tiny miniature that actually lives inside the cactus in the desert, to the great horned owl, which is the only bird that can out fly the golden eagle. A fully grown great horned is an awe inspiring creature. Its talons are furry, and closely resemble the paws of a baby mountain lion with claws extended. It is a meat eater, which means it can be a fierce warrior if challenged, or if something dear to it is threatened. It is often referred to as Night Eagle. Owl is at home in the night. It has great awareness of all that is around it at all times. It has predator vision, which means it sees clearly what it looks at. It has great intuition: it is the totem of psychics and clairvoyants. It has the courage to follow its instincts. Owl's medicine includes seeing behind masks, silent and swift movement, keen sight, messenger of secrets and omens, shape-shifting, link between the dark, unseen world and the world of light, comfort with shadow self, moon power, freedom.(http://www.crystalinks.com/totemanimals.html)
Eagle feathers are used all over the world as ceremonial instruments and are considered to be the most sacred healing tools. They are a symbol of power, healing and wisdom. Eagle represents a state of grace that is reached through inner work, understanding and passing the initiation tests that result from reclaiming our personal power. Eagle Medicine is the Power of the Great Spirit. It is the spirit of tenacity. It is the gift of clear vision with which one can truly see the things one sees. It is the patience to wait for the appropriate moment. It is to live in balance with heaven and Earth. Eagle reminds you of your connection with the Great Spirit. It tells you that the universe is giving you the opportunity to fly above your life's worldly levels, or above the shadow of past realities. Eagle teaches you to look above in order to touch Grandfather Sun with your heart, to love the Shadow as much as the Light. Eagle asks you to grant yourself permission to be free in order to reach the joy that your heart desires.
Finally we arrive at the last animal, the serpent.
From the beginning of time serpents have imbedded themselves into the human psyche. Ancient societies ascribed to their amazing powers...considered among the wisest and most cunning of creatures with their unblinking eyes that were believed to see all. Emerging from Mother Earth, the serpent was believed to be all knowing of the world's secret knowledge and vital forces. It is viewed to be an Underworld magical animal found in Celtic Tradition and represents the natural cycles of life due to the regular shedding of its skin. Being a symbol of rebirth and by shedding its old skin to reemerge in the spring from the winter's hibernation; it gives the impression of its immortality.
Several different cultures recognize this aspect of the serpent. The Ouroboros for example, is the symbol of a circled snake devouring its own tail signifying the continuing cycle of life. The term "ouroboros" comes from the Greeks meaning "tail eater". This image is also seen as the Midgard Serpent (sometimes called Midgardsorm) of Norse Mythology. This symbol may not represent a specific mythos, but does represent the endless circle of time, rebirth, regeneration, and the balance of creation.
These aspects of the serpent were obvious and important symbolisms for our Tradition. Through the years we have learned to accept change and the teaching that it brings. Serpents are also recognized as symbols of wisdom and healing. Because of their "wave-like" movements they are associated with healing waters and sacred wells, sources of the healing and regenerative powers within Mother Earth. These facts and symbolisms have also lead us to view the serpent as a protector and keeper of health and well-being. In addition, the serpent is not only representative of the Goddess, but the God as well. This is also very relevant to our path because through it all, balance is one of our main focal points. We recognize both aspects of creation and the wisdom they bring. (http//:www.witchvox.com/va/dt_va.html?a=usok&c=trads&id=11533)
Here we see balance just like the Deer. Another major characteristic is the endless circle of time and rebirth and immortality. This is similar to yet another symbol: the Egyptian ankh. It’s not a surprise that I favor Egypt, the land of the rising sun, and the Egyptian ankh as well as serpents. I also have a tattoo that is a sun with an eye in the center of it. The symbolism that went into it is deeply personal on my behalf. The sun represents fire, power, passion, strength, beginnings, heat and light. The eye represents the all-seeing eye, wisdom, the eye of time, and the Egyptian God Horus.
Delving further into the mythology of Horus, we see that nearly all of the earlier animal characteristics apply to Horus.
http://www.crystalinks.com/horus.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horus
http://www.touregypt.net/godsofegypt/horus.htm
So here I sit will all of this symbology that I deem meaningful in some way to defining who I really am. The elements: Fire and Air; the colors: gold, yellow, red, and orange; Time: Beginning or creation; the sun (especially the rising sun); wisdom, power, intuitive thought, balance, protection, guardianship, freedom, strength, intelligence, truth, vigilance, love, passion, awareness, and salvation; and the animals: falcon/owl, lion/cat, deer, snake, horse and the Egyptian God Horus sums everything up.
I’m not sure what a spirit/power/totem animal is, or what a familiar is. What should I do with this knowledge? How can I benefit from it? How can I use it in life? Is there a deeper meaning in it all?
Thank you in advance for your replies and considerations.
I have always felt a connection to certain kinds of animals at certain times. The animals are the snake, deer, horse, lion/cat, and gryphon. My zodiac is Leo and I have always been independent as cats are wont to do.
According to Crystalinks:
"Cat's medicine is independence, curiosity, many lives, cleverness, unpredictability, healing, the ability to fight when cornered, seeing the unseen, and protection. He also represents love and can assist us in meditation. If Cat is your Power Animal, then you have magic and mystery in your life. You are independent and a free thinker. You probably feel energized at night. You will stay with a person or situation until it bores you, and then you're gone. You have a great talent for organizing things " ("Totem Animals." Crystalinks. http://www.crystalinks.com/totemanimals.html).
I can vouch for all of this, but not all the time. I am not always independent, unpredictable, or healing. I don't always feel energized at night and at times my room is utter chaos. As far as curiosity goes, my girlfriend will quickly point out that I just can’t take “because” for an answer. I have to know why something is the way it is, and I won’t settle for less. I often question people as to why they believe the way they do, not in an effort to attack them, but to better understand them and quench my curiosity. I have been known to come up with clever and witty thoughts and ideas. My friends would call me classy. I also have always stood up for what I believe is right (I would never make it in jail lol). I have magic and mystery in my life. I have always been a cat person and am “mom” to 5 cats currently. Call me the cat-lady-starter-kit.
“Lion's Medicine teaches us the magic of group interaction, of group energy. It also teaches us the secrets of silence and patience. Patience is to pay attention to detail. Lion suggests that we examine ourselves closely in order to understand our strengths and weaknesses, and to wait for the proper moment to act and take full advantage of a given situation. Learn from Lion the proper way to use power and strength. Stay calm and still, sure of your power. But if necessary, don't hesitate to fight for the things you are interested in.”
As I stated above, I always stand up for what I believe in, but I have the introspection to know my own strengths and weaknesses and to be able to thoroughly define what it is that I believe. I can have great patience, and then I can sometimes be the exact opposite
Moving on to the deer:
"Deer blend very well with their environment but are very sensitive to every sound or movement. Often twins, even triplets, are born in the spring. Does and bucks live in separate groups until the mating season. The white-tailed deer are moderately gregarious, and family members forage food together along with other family groups, giving the appearance of a large herd. People with Deer Medicine are often described as being swift and alert. They are intuitive, often appearing to have well developed, even extrasensory perceptions. Sometimes their thoughts seem to race ahead, and they appear not to be listening. Deer's medicine includes gentleness in word, thought and touch, ability to listen, grace and appreciation for the beauty of balance, understanding of what's necessary for survival, power of gratitude and giving, ability to sacrifice for the higher good, connection to the woodland spirits, alternative paths to a goal. The gentleness of Deer is the heart-space of the Great Spirit which embodies His love for us all. Deer teaches us to find the gentleness of spirit that heals all wounds, to stop pushing to get others to change and to love and accept them as they are. The only true balance to power is love and compassion" ("Totem Animals." Crystalinks. http://www.crystalinks.com/totemanimals.html).
I love the thought of balance and I strive to find balance in the things I do. I pick up on things quickly. I have an Intuitive personality and extrasensory perceptions. My girlfriend often complains that I seem to be miles away and I often think of things before others do. People start talking and I finish not only their sentences but their whole train of thought and add to it. Sometimes I am so engrossed in thinking about whatever it is, that I tune out others around me. I am not always gentle in word, thought or touch though. I have been a better listener. I have also always felt that whatever great and good that is in me is best felt and used by applying it to others in need-thus the sacrifice for the greater good. A great example of this is “my creed” that I posted as a blog. I have always loved the woodlands and mountains and I have been blessed to be surrounded by these deep, earthy woodlands here in East TN. I also look at all possible choices before deciding on a route-alternative paths to a goal. I am searching for the gentleness in my spirit that heals all wounds. I have been a warrior for quite a while and it’s growing tiresome. I have only begun to love and accept people as they are, starting with me.
“The horse shows up in almost every mythological writing, folklore, and reality. There is the mighty winged Pegasus, the eight-legged horse of the Norse god Odin, the stallions of the Hindu sun god, the stallions of Apollo, and so on. Many legends speak of the horse as being clairvoyant and able to perceive humans with magical powers. No single animal has given man the physical freedom of movement as the horse. If you are drawn to Horse, you feel a power in your spirit that is sometimes difficult to control. Horse is a symbol of loyalty and devotion, of unquestioning love and faith in his master. He says that you love to travel, and have more than a touch of gypsy in your soul. Horse is also your warrior spirit - the brave fighter who brings you safety in your journeys, both physical and metaphysical. Horse's medicine includes power, stamina, endurance, faithfulness, freedom to run free, control of the environment, awareness of power achieved with true cooperation, interspecies communication, expanding one's own potential abilities, friendship and cooperation, travel, astral travel, guardian of travelers, warns of possible danger, guide to overcoming obstacles.”
As a symbol of loyalty and devotion, I find these things in my relationships with others. I do feel a power in my spirit that becomes difficult to control at times. I seek freedom and limitlessness in all things I do. I can’t sit still in one place without feeling trapped or caged. I can’t even stay home for one whole day without going out somewhere. I have trouble sitting through a whole movie. I am also very in-tune with the warrior inside of me. I love traveling and astral travel was something that I achieved early on. I perceive myself as a guardian and protector. I try to warn others of possible danger and urge them to look at things from every perspective. I was also born under the year of the Horse in Chinese Astrology.
Gryphons have always been depicted as guardians of treasure. Gryphon’s themselves depict gold, as they represent the wealth of the sun at dawn, the gold in the east.” (http://gryphonguild.critter.net/mythology.html)
In symbolism, the griffin combines the symbolic qualities of both the lion and the eagle. It is the king of birds and lord of the air united with the king of beasts and lord of the earth.
Griffins are a symbol of the sun, wisdom, vengeance, strength, and salvation.
Even Christ's Ascension came to be associated with the griffin. The creature appeared as frequently in the applied arts (tapestries, the work of goldsmiths) as in heraldry. In the latter domain, Boeckler (1688) offered the following interpretation: "Griffins are portrayed with a lion's body, an eagle's head, long ears, and an eagle's claws, to indicate that one must combine intelligence and strength."
A very protective and vigilant Spirit Guide, the Griffin (also spelled gryphon or griffon) is a master of astral workings and a guardian of the Soul and Life-essence. It appears as a creature with the head & wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. (http://www.tween-the-shadows.com/magick/symbols_magick/griffons_gry...)
The Gryphon has been used in art and literature to symbolize the Gods, the sun, chariots, gold, Christ, Satan and more. For me the Gryphon combines the qualities of several other animals: the warrior, freedom, strength, power, bravery, confidence, protection, guardianship, and several aspects of my zodiac Leo. The colors gold, orange, yellow, and red and also the connection to the east and the sun itself. In my own translation, the qualities of Deer are applied to the Gryphon when I see that the Gryphon is a combination of intelligence and strength. We see a balance were both are in check. As far as birds go, I have felt a lesser relation to Owls and falcons (or Eagles):
Owls come in all sizes, from a tiny miniature that actually lives inside the cactus in the desert, to the great horned owl, which is the only bird that can out fly the golden eagle. A fully grown great horned is an awe inspiring creature. Its talons are furry, and closely resemble the paws of a baby mountain lion with claws extended. It is a meat eater, which means it can be a fierce warrior if challenged, or if something dear to it is threatened. It is often referred to as Night Eagle. Owl is at home in the night. It has great awareness of all that is around it at all times. It has predator vision, which means it sees clearly what it looks at. It has great intuition: it is the totem of psychics and clairvoyants. It has the courage to follow its instincts. Owl's medicine includes seeing behind masks, silent and swift movement, keen sight, messenger of secrets and omens, shape-shifting, link between the dark, unseen world and the world of light, comfort with shadow self, moon power, freedom.(http://www.crystalinks.com/totemanimals.html)
Eagle feathers are used all over the world as ceremonial instruments and are considered to be the most sacred healing tools. They are a symbol of power, healing and wisdom. Eagle represents a state of grace that is reached through inner work, understanding and passing the initiation tests that result from reclaiming our personal power. Eagle Medicine is the Power of the Great Spirit. It is the spirit of tenacity. It is the gift of clear vision with which one can truly see the things one sees. It is the patience to wait for the appropriate moment. It is to live in balance with heaven and Earth. Eagle reminds you of your connection with the Great Spirit. It tells you that the universe is giving you the opportunity to fly above your life's worldly levels, or above the shadow of past realities. Eagle teaches you to look above in order to touch Grandfather Sun with your heart, to love the Shadow as much as the Light. Eagle asks you to grant yourself permission to be free in order to reach the joy that your heart desires.
Finally we arrive at the last animal, the serpent.
From the beginning of time serpents have imbedded themselves into the human psyche. Ancient societies ascribed to their amazing powers...considered among the wisest and most cunning of creatures with their unblinking eyes that were believed to see all. Emerging from Mother Earth, the serpent was believed to be all knowing of the world's secret knowledge and vital forces. It is viewed to be an Underworld magical animal found in Celtic Tradition and represents the natural cycles of life due to the regular shedding of its skin. Being a symbol of rebirth and by shedding its old skin to reemerge in the spring from the winter's hibernation; it gives the impression of its immortality.
Several different cultures recognize this aspect of the serpent. The Ouroboros for example, is the symbol of a circled snake devouring its own tail signifying the continuing cycle of life. The term "ouroboros" comes from the Greeks meaning "tail eater". This image is also seen as the Midgard Serpent (sometimes called Midgardsorm) of Norse Mythology. This symbol may not represent a specific mythos, but does represent the endless circle of time, rebirth, regeneration, and the balance of creation.
These aspects of the serpent were obvious and important symbolisms for our Tradition. Through the years we have learned to accept change and the teaching that it brings. Serpents are also recognized as symbols of wisdom and healing. Because of their "wave-like" movements they are associated with healing waters and sacred wells, sources of the healing and regenerative powers within Mother Earth. These facts and symbolisms have also lead us to view the serpent as a protector and keeper of health and well-being. In addition, the serpent is not only representative of the Goddess, but the God as well. This is also very relevant to our path because through it all, balance is one of our main focal points. We recognize both aspects of creation and the wisdom they bring. (http//:www.witchvox.com/va/dt_va.html?a=usok&c=trads&id=11533)
Here we see balance just like the Deer. Another major characteristic is the endless circle of time and rebirth and immortality. This is similar to yet another symbol: the Egyptian ankh. It’s not a surprise that I favor Egypt, the land of the rising sun, and the Egyptian ankh as well as serpents. I also have a tattoo that is a sun with an eye in the center of it. The symbolism that went into it is deeply personal on my behalf. The sun represents fire, power, passion, strength, beginnings, heat and light. The eye represents the all-seeing eye, wisdom, the eye of time, and the Egyptian God Horus.
Delving further into the mythology of Horus, we see that nearly all of the earlier animal characteristics apply to Horus.
http://www.crystalinks.com/horus.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horus
http://www.touregypt.net/godsofegypt/horus.htm
So here I sit will all of this symbology that I deem meaningful in some way to defining who I really am. The elements: Fire and Air; the colors: gold, yellow, red, and orange; Time: Beginning or creation; the sun (especially the rising sun); wisdom, power, intuitive thought, balance, protection, guardianship, freedom, strength, intelligence, truth, vigilance, love, passion, awareness, and salvation; and the animals: falcon/owl, lion/cat, deer, snake, horse and the Egyptian God Horus sums everything up.
I’m not sure what a spirit/power/totem animal is, or what a familiar is. What should I do with this knowledge? How can I benefit from it? How can I use it in life? Is there a deeper meaning in it all?
Thank you in advance for your replies and considerations.
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by jack on -
you don't know in the beginning. all you can do is be sincere. when you are ready the guide/teacher will come. so, for example: say you feel ready to meet your spirit guide, which you suspect will come to you in the form of a gryphon. you can create a place in your mind's eye that is suitable such as a nest or cave or some other such place they like. put offerings to draw it there. maybe write a letter in your book of shadows telling it what you hope to accomplish. then think about your spiritual path and where it is that you want it to go. then place a visual representation of that letter in the nest/cave (in the mind's eye) for the guide when it arrives. maybe burn a candle here on the earthly plain that would strengthen or enhance your chances of an ongoing relationship. this is what i meant when i mentioned "...trial and error". try different things and see what works.
so, can you see how all of these acts are sympathetic to your goal? how they are telling the universe that you are "seeking"? see how the contemplation of said acts speaks to your "higher self" in a different kind of language? in doing such work not only will you come to realize what it is you seek but also how to better get there. just don't force an image of the gryphon in your mind. only prepare a place for it to come on its own. also, realize that this path is a lifestyle and that sometimes these things won't become immediately apparent to you, so i suggest keeping a detailed journal of everything you try along with any results. then go back every now and then to see if there are any patterns that seem noticeable or relevant.
-
Permalink Reply by jack on
-
also, be open to all forms of communication here. as your guide doesn't neccasseraly have to communicate to you with words. sometimes its only images, or a "feeling" similar to how intuition feels. sometimes its by external events. sometimes its a combination of these things. everyones diff. i suppose it depends on your own natural capabilities and/or experiences...
-
Permalink Reply by Divinities Creature on -
I usually do fine without words. In fact, I can only remember one spiritual experience with the divine that I have had that involved words. It was very startling, because I am and was used to "listening" and seeking subtle clues or images. I know what you mean by that "feeling." As far as external events..last night I saw a shooting star on my drive home. I see them all the time. I'm not talking about once a month or once every other week. I see them on a weekly and sometimes even nightly basis. My friends hardly ever see one. I think its unusual that they dont ever see them and they think its unusual that I see them so often. I "know" their is a reason beyond coincidence that I see them so often. But I haven't figured it all out yet. I have many theories, but none feel completely true. My mother even, who is very logical in all that she does, says that I have always been "lucky" without trying. Good things always just seem to happen to me out of the blue.
-
Permalink Reply by Divinities Creature on
-
In relation to Gods, what are spirit guides? Are they the ideal archetype of our subconscious souls? I'm having a really hard time digesting Gods as being above and beyond me, or you, or anyone else. I know that seems strange, but for the longest, I always perceived that their was "something" that controlled our universe, in many subtle ways. I never had a name for that "something" but I always felt that it was different from a God or a Goddess. A God/Goddess was part of it, and so is everything in existence, Everything and everyone is part of this huge spiritual body. It's the end-all and bee-all, the divine, the macrocosm of existence, and everything else (including gods/goddesses) is broken down into reflections(microcosms) of that one immense being. If that makes sense? I also have always been aware of their being a higher goal in all things, although that goal is never clear to me. I also considered everyone to be divine, since we are small reflections of true divinity. And archetypes are all ingrained, innate pieces of the divine handed down to us. Archetypes are true to their form, they have no race or color, no agenda, no bias- and yet, they defy logic and reason and evoke powerful emotions in all of us. I don't even know where I am going in all of this except to say that the way I have believed is alot different from the way alot of Wiccans believe. Its hard for me to digest a female figure in the Goddess being the end-all and bee-all, instead of just "the divine". I can see the Goddess as a part of the divine, but not in all of its entirety. I have a hard time with duality as well, for the same reason. The divine was never segregated. It was just one, genderless, being. I also used to see creation as energy, just different types and different frequencies. There's alot of stuff going on in my head right now, is the main thesis for this paragraph. I don't have an answer for "where I want to go in my spiritual path." I wouldn't want to impose my own impulsive wants onto my spiritual being, if that makes sense to you. The answers always come. Sometimes I have a good guess as to what the answer is or may be, but honestly right now, I can't fathom it. And patience is indeed a virtue. I'm not even sure how Gryphon would help me on this journey. I've always done things on my own, it's that cat thing I talked about, lol, independence. I'm just really confused at this point, but I feel like I'm on the verge of one of those breakthroughs, and it will drag out until I've reached my limit, because spiritual growth doesn't arise out of limitations.
I hope to accomplish, but I don't know what it is that I hope to accomplish. It's like standing in the middle of nowhere and limitless paths are just stretching away in all directions. But why should I choose one over another? Shouldn't I wait for some sort of signal that one is better than the rest?
>.< So confused.
-
Permalink Reply by Divinities Creature on
-
After going back and re-reading what I had typed I realized that here was a perfect example of my symbolism with the Lion:
“Lion's Medicine teaches us the magic of group interaction, of group energy. It also teaches us the secrets of silence and patience. Patience is to pay attention to detail. Lion suggests that we examine ourselves closely in order to understand our strengths and weaknesses, and to wait for the proper moment to act and take full advantage of a given situation.">
-
Permalink Reply by Dragona on -
Lol, it's very rare for us to fit all characteristics into one magical aspect whatever that may be. I have aspects of the cat, the horse, the dragon, and the wolf. My living familiar is a cat. My spirit familiar is a wolf. I have a special connection with horses in general and am often able to help the troubled ones that no one else could help. I am called for the dragon because of wisdom beyond my years, and strength of body; mind; and spirit. It feels like you may be trying to hard. Relax and let it come through. Love and light, Dragona.
-
Permalink Reply by Divinities Creature on
-
I think that because the set of beliefs that I have held onto and called my own has recently started unravelling, I'm left scrambling for stable threads to hold onto, while trying to move forward spiritually. That's a challenge, especially when I pretty much have it narrowed down as to what I most definitly do not believe. But I can't fully define what it is I DO believe anymore because thats changing. So I'm trying to understand Wicca because I think it may be a potential path for me, while trying to reason and justify what I thought I believed about the universe.
Their were already several similarities between my own path and Wicca, but at the same time, their were many differences. I'm attempting to dissolve those differences to see if Wicca would be right for me. There are alot of things about Wicca that I like the idea of. Like structure, and being a part of a coven; having that companionship. I've never had that before in a spiritual setting. I like the thought of ritual as well.
Not too long ago, when I was settled and comfortable with what I believed, I had no reason to turn my mind inward and dissect myself in relation to who I was and what I believed. But now that the contentment and comfort have been questioned, and then removed, I don't think it's surprising to think that now, I am asking myself those deeper questions and engaging in introspection.
The aspects of myself that I have pointed out have always been there, but I didn't have any reason to analyze them before as deeply as I do now. I don't think I'm trying too hard, and I don't think this is in vain. I think this coming to terms with certain aspects of myself, is going to be necessary in overcoming the challenges that are before me.
In this discussion, I felt like I should just sit down and make a list of what I have observed and get other's perspectives, I have accomplished that and more. It's like when you have alot on your mind and you think that if you could just sit down and talk with someone about them and get it out, you'd feel so much better. Off the internet I have reached a more stressing and emotional period in my life that also contributes to the changes I am experiencing.
And what started out as sharing aspects of myself here to get insight as to where I should go next, has in turn, futher broken down my beliefs. Not that that is necessarily a bad thing, I'm just out of my comfort level and struggling to make something new. =)
-
Permalink Reply by Dragona on
-
It's always necessary to inspect oneself. You will grow and change throughout your life and your beliefs along with you. That's not what i meant when i said you were trying too hard. Your guides with lead you but if you try too hard; you'll see them where they're not and may find yourself on a path completely unsuitable for you. I did just that once and I accidently put myself, my friends, and my family in danger messing with things way above my head at the time.
I really need to specify what i mean. I often put my foot in it that way, lol. I'm sorry about that. Hope I've made myself clearly this time :o). Love and light, Dragona.
-
Permalink Reply by Divinities Creature on
-
I understand. No worries. =)
-
Permalink Reply by jack on
-
In relation to Gods, what are spirit guides?
i've come to believe that spirit guides/guardian angels are a specific part of the psyche. they are our spiritual big brothers and sisters. if our mind, or intellect (that which is the totality of our conscious perceptions) was composed of several unique but separate (before birth) entities the leader or second of these would be the spirit guide.
...I always perceived that their was "something" that controlled our universe
we may never know during life but i feel the same as you, divinities, in that there is a "something". but i feel this ultimate something isn't like anything our minds could comprehend. maybe we are slaves to the illusions time and space or maybe we just don't have the capacity of realization to fully understand, but i do think we could "invent" alternatives that we do understand. and i also think that by creating these alternatives we come a little closer to the ultimate truths that "are".
...I feel like I'm on the verge of one of those breakthroughs
thats a good sign. i've been feeling that same verge for years. to me it says that you are on the right path towards wisdom. as long as you study and seek answers, contemplate, and imagine the wonders of our universe you will feel that same "verge". *chuckles*
-
Permalink Reply by Lord Crunernnos ~ The Horned Mod on -
WARNING.....this may not become as english friendly as intended as i tend to slip into phrase an' slang an' symbologies without thinking, so i appologize ahead of time...(on with the show)
wow...finally....*grins*...a post that seems to encompass the circle within...hehehe.....
What should I do with this knowledge? How can I benefit from it? How can I use it in life? Is there a deeper meaning in it all?
seems like such a simple 4 question set up don't it?...but analyzing an' figuring is simply the beginning to the final ending with a whole lot in between... i can simply only speak with heart an' mind an' knowledge i've gained from the perspectives of me "druidic to the core" in thought an' understandin's... but i'm willing to give a try...
the whole idea of all of this symbolistic view points an' associations were created as a way an means for explanations to the occurances of life an it's interactions with each other...these were created in a time an' place for explanation and associative reasonings based upon what they recognized to be a factual occurances between the relationships of human an the natural world an it's workin's an related phenomena...everything from God(s)/dess(s), to the growth of life within the natural world including the plants an trees, birds an bees, lions an tigers an bears (oh my!!!), to the interactions of emotional ties with human an the natural world...the effects of one having 'pon the other, an' the effects of those effects havin' on those effects...see where that one goes?...kinda like a ripple in the seas....*sighs ponderingly*...
...anyways, back to topic at hand...the symbols an' representations an' associations are all used in formats to either compliment, or work against the others when used accordingly in sequences (it's important to know these things if yur trying to get good results as i'm sure yur aware)...the more one knows the intricacies of the emotions raised for a particular type of workin's the better the outcome since the better the emotion, the better the energy, yada yada yada ...
...now...this of course is not only prevalent within the natural world, nor the "magical" world, but also within the mundane world as well...lets say that if yur mate is a leo, then it might be good to know that he's gonna be firey at times, proud an' stand ground most times.....s'pecially if yur actually desiring someone that's reserved, and meek and mild...(that's a might simplified example, but ya know what i mean)...all of these symbols an associations are all 'round us an' interact with us in ways ya don't see t'ill ya take a peek an' see what needs to be seen, hear what needs to be heard, feel what needs to be felt, smelled what needs to be smelled, sensed what is but is not seen...
...point i was trying to get across is that we have actions and reactions to situations in all part of life...these associations and relationships and understandings of the correspondances can help us to decide upon courses of actions within and upon our lives with the benefit of the additional information.....
...is there a deeper meaning in it all?...some might say deep is as deep does...how deep would ya like to go, or more importantly, how deep are ya willing and able to go...with the connections an' associations that i've experienced in me time i'd be willing to bet that it's 'prolly pretty deep...i ain't found the bottom yet, but i'll let ya know when i does...:P
-
Permalink Reply by Divinities Creature on
-
Here is that Tattoo I was talking about that is symbolic to me.
- ‹ Previous
- 1
- 2
- Next ›
Visit our Featured Sites
Become a member today and get a free ebook
Sign up for a free membership today and receive a free Ebook "A True History Of Witchcraft"
© 2010 Created by Brian K.
