a question on Totems/Familiars

[Eric McTavish]

There was an interesting post on the Rogue's Board about animal totems and I was wondering if anyone had more information on Totems and familiars, the differences and how you can tell which is which, and why...

:meow:

[shadow]

this is gonna sound tacky but everytime i'v ever went to the zoo I visit the wolfs cage and i always see them looking right at me.

doesnt mean they are my totem animal but id like to know what their totem means

[emalia]

I get all sorsts of peacful around animals in general. Dogs, Cats, Wolves, Fish, Horses, Llamas, Cows.. Pretty much you name it..

[shadow]

rogues too?
:twisted:

[biker]

this is gonna sound tacky but everytime i'v ever went to the zoo I visit the wolfs cage and i always see them looking right at me.

doesnt mean they are my totem animal but id like to know what their totem means

maybe they are thinking lunch????

[shadow]

maybe

but i dont think i taste very good


than again ive never had complaints

:twisted:

[emalia]

rogues too?
:twisted:

Rogues too.. But that is a different piece..

[Absinthe d'Accalia]

Eric - You've touched on something that is quite dear to my heart! :D I've been a little heathen from the time I was very young with many a connection to various two-legged, four-legged & more-legged friends.

I find that during different times in my life, an animal, insect, spiders, whatnot, will show up constantly - regardless of my surroundings - and that there is usually a lesson to be found in their appearances. Sometimes I'm too dense or preoccupied to notice it and they keep showing up, and showing up, and showing up until I finally get it!

Shadow - I can see you with the wolf in your life - they have an amazingly enormous sense of family, but they are also quite strong individuals who have their own dreams/ideas. It is also the sharing of the knowledge you have with others (writing, lecturing, etc.) that will help others better understand themselves and the path they are on, as well as looking for the lessons/teachers in all that is around us. :aroooo:

Emalia - that connection is wonderful, because it shows that you are truthful to your sense of self - animals can spot a bull-shitter (for lack of a better word) a mile away and react accordingly. :wink:

This is probably WAY more info you ever were interested in, but hopefully it will be enjoyable to peruse.

Here's a good article from www.llewellyn.com that explains familiars:

http://www.llewellynjournal.com/article/480

In regard to totems, here's a thumnail sketch from a great book (and medicine cards) by the authors Jamie Sams & David Carson:

ANIMAL TOTEM CORRESPONDENCES
Eagle: The Power of the Great Spirit
Hawk: Messenger of the Gods
Elk: Brotherhood and Sisterhood
Deer: The Gentleness of Spirit
Bear: The Power of Introspection
Snake: The Power of Creation & Transmutation
Skunk: The Power of Respect
Otter: The Power of Women
Butterfly: The Power of Transformation
Turtle: The Great Mother
Moose: The Power of the Elders
Porcupine: The Power of Innocence
Coyote: The Great Trickster
Dog: The Power of Loyalty
Wolf: The Power of the Teacher
Raven: The Power of Magick
Mountain Lion: The Power of Leadership
Lynx: The Keeper of Secrets
Buffalo: The Great Spirit
Mouse: The Power of Scrutiny
Owl: The Power of Illumination
Beaver: The Power of Unity
Opossum: The Power of Diversion
Crow: Keeper of Sacred Law
Fox: The Power of the Unseen
Squirrel: The Gatherer
Dragonfly: The Art of Illusion
Armadillo: The Power of Boundaries
Badger: The Power of Aggression
Rabbit: The Fear Caller
Turkey: The Give-Away
Ant: The Power of Patience
Weasel: The Power of Observation
Grouse: The Sacred Spiral
Horse: The Gift of Power
Lizard: The Power of Dreams
Antelope: The Power of Action
Frog: The Power of Water
Swan: The Power of Grace
Dolphin: Sacred Breath of Life
Whale: The Record Keeper
Bat: The Power of Rebirth
Spider: Weaver of Fate
Hummingbird: The Power of Joy

EAST:
Your totem animal in the East guides you to your greatest spiritual challenges and guards you while you are on that path of illumination. (for me it is the owl)

WEST:
Your totem animal in the West leads you to your personal truth. He helps you find the answers you already have buried deep within. (for me, the wild boar)

SOUTH:
Your totem animal in the South brings you trust, balance, and innocence. He protects your inner child. (for me, the rabbit)

NORTH:
Your totem animal in the North is very wise. He helps you to discern when to listen and when to speak. He also reminds you of all the blessings that have been bestowed upon you. (for me, the porcupine)

ABOVE:
Your totem animal from Above connects you to the Great Star Nation, the Universe, and reminds you that you came from the stars and so shall return someday. This totem also brings you the dreams you experience in the Dream Time, helping you connect to other dimensions other than just this one. (for me, the snake)

BELOW:
Your totem animal from Below brings lessons about Mother Earth and how to stay grounded and balanced while here in the Earth Walk. (for me, the black panther)

WITHIN:
Your totem animal from Within brings you your heart’s desire and gives you the strength to be true to your dreams and Walk your Talk. (for me, the elk)

RIGHT SIDE:
Your totem animal on your Right Side protects you like a father. He is your protector as well as the one who gives you your courage and spirit to fight when necessary. (for me, the wolf)

LEFT SIDE:
Your totem animal on your Left Side protects you like a mother. He teaches nurturing yourself as well as others. He teaches how to experience and have loving relationships. (for me, the raven & the hawk - which was really odd that it has been that way - I figure it's because I pretty much had no nurturing females in my family growing up)

[emalia]

LittleHarp/Belladonna's Mom calls me the Earth Mom. I can walk thorugh a grocery store, and children of all ages, will stop and watch me go by. Most smile.

I used to work at the Humane Society, and they would always call me in for difficult ones.

FYI: Blue Jays are the Bird of Change. Lots of them mean you need to re-evaluate and change something.

[Absinthe d'Accalia]

Emalia the Earth Mother :D It fits.

I didn't know that about the Blue Jays - I've always thought they were a very cool, striking looking bird. I wonder what Cardinals mean? We've got TONS of them in our backyard - even more so that all the crows, finches, brown thrashers (The GA State Bird!), mourning doves & other assorted winged folk that stop by to dine.

[Nitestar]

Being Native American, A totem or familiar is a part of your spirit to show you different ways on the path, to be what they could or should be in life. While choosing to act on this one way or another is usually a person's choice. Animal spirits are the most common, but there are others of water, fire, air and even earth, depending on your position in life, not even mentioning any Gods.

To me to ascend into the spirit world is a very sacred thing and should never be taken lightly. That's why I am weary of some of those half-assed predictions. But not being a Heathen, I wouldn't know.

This is just my religious view.

Lord Nitestar - taking over the keyboard for a moment.
Rogue #1176

[Antonio_della_furfante]

I always love talking to people about this, always gives me somthing new to think about.

Signorina Absinthe d'Accalia: Got any extra info on Snake? The rogues board provided some information that I hadn't thought of but just wondering if you had something that I may not of thought of yet. :D

[Absinthe d'Accalia]

I have to whisk off to work, Antonio caro, but when I get home, I'd be delighted to share what I've found in my readings. Ciao for now. :meow:

[Antonio_della_furfante]

A totem or familiar is a part of your spirit to show you different ways on the path, to be what they could or should be in life. While choosing to act on this one way or another is usually a person's choice. Animal spirits are the most common, but there are others of water, fire, air and even earth, depending on your position in life, not even mentioning any Gods.

To me to ascend into the spirit world is a very sacred thing and should never be taken lightly. That's why I am weary of some of those half-assed predictions. But not being a Heathen, I wouldn't know.

I agree with that completly *nods* most of what we can post here is pretty etheral, and not complete (for those of you reading both Rogues and Wench boards that's why I am asking the same questions.)


I have to whisk off to work, Antonio caro, but when I get home, I'd be delighted to share what I've found in my readings. Ciao for now. :meow

Si *nods* I rememberd the other totem that recently entered my life Fox (my friend has Coyote, never ever let us become sleep depravated and/or bored in the same area...) anything on that one Caro? :zen:

[Dragonfly]

I found that the totems actually come in to and leave my life, but that I have a handful that stay with me.
I am fox, hardcore...I can "turn on the fox" and have an entire room of men staring at me. I'm not bragging, it's just that when I work with that energy, they notice.
I also have a totem that isn't generally listed in standard books, and that's dragon. I find it very fitting, as I'm very fiery, very passionate. I have worked with it to both quell (sp?) the violent side -I do have a hell of a temper at times- and to harness the fire for creativity's sake. For the longest time people would look at me and they couldn't put their finger on my totem, while everyone around me was very obviously something else. Most of my friends, for instance, are wolves, bears, or ravens. Then one day I mentioned how much I loved dragons and my friend looked up and said "Damnit, you're a dragon! DUH!"
I dunno. *shrugs* Makes sense to me.
As to wolves staring at you, Shadow, animals can see when someone who's a little more "awake" and aware walks near them.
A walk to the zoo is always a treat, because the animals will come crawling down off the branches to rub against the display windows if I lean close. True story, ask my Mom and my best friend, it happens all the time. They just know when people are more aware than others.
Okay, now I'm babbling, so I'm just going to shut up and go eat lunch. :?

[I'Cin]

Some interesting information in here (and on the Rogue's board).

I've always found it amusing that my mother who HATES snakes - not necessarily scared of them but doesn't like them - named me Nyoka (middle name, thank you). I found out that its a Swahili word (sometimes spelled "Nioka") that means snake. I was also born in the Chinese Year of the Snake. And believe me, my mother would not have had any way to know either of those things (and certainly wouldn't have named me that if she HAD known).

I'Cin

[Ysobelle]

How on earth did she choose that name, then? It's pretty! But it's also pretty unusual.

[I'Cin]

How on earth did she choose that name, then? It's pretty! But it's also pretty unusual.

I'm from east Tennessee (insert hillbilly jokes here), and there was a local tv quiz show for high school students and some girl from the backwoods of Virginia on it was named Nyoka. My pregnant mother decided she really liked the way it sounded and that if she had a girl that's what she'd name her. :roll: When I was born, my brother who was almost 10, complained about it so much it got moved to the middle name. One of the few good things my brother ever did for me. Oh, and my first name is Cindy not Cynthia.

It took me years to come to terms with "Nyoka". :D

I'Cin

[Ysobelle]

It took me years to come to terms with "Nyoka". :D




I think it's lovely!

[emalia]

I was almost named Tia Mara.
I don't mind what I was given, as every one knows it TIa Marie.. First and middle.. ''

I just find it funny cause one on my good friends is named Mara. ;)

An I was named after a golden retriever, not the drink.

As for my totems, again, I am not sure.

[Dragonfly]

*laugh* That's my snake's nickname!
She's named Tiamat....but Tia Maria is easier on the tongue!

[MacKahlia]

I also have the snake as one of my friendly totem animals... and I spent most of my life down right phobic of them!!! I once asked an older friend of mine, a very knowledgable witch, why on earth would this be. She said I was frightened of myself... which at the time, made sense. A snake's medicine is supposed to be that one can take in the pain and sickness of others and cleanse it and make it good again. Snakes are thought of as healers in some areas because they can survive the venom.
just a thought to share with the group.
I love totem animals.
Several of them have adopted me over time.
:aroooo:

[Nevada]

anything feline I feel affinity with...especially bobcats.....I feel more affinity with fur and hoof/paw than with fin or feather.

[KissMeKate]

Same here. Even during my wildlife studies, I soaked up all of the mammalian information, and had to struggle with everything else. Herpetology is neat but not something I could see myself working with as a career. I don't even like handling birds because they seem so fragile to me. I've always had an affinity for wolves, the lone wolf rather than the pack wolf. Most everything else (especially recently) is cats of all kinds. I do get other visiting totem spirits, especially if I have to learn a lesson more than once :oops: but luckily that doesn't happen too often.

[KissMeKate]

Same here. Even during my wildlife studies, I soaked up all of the mammalian information, and had to struggle with everything else. Herpetology is neat but not something I could see myself working with as a career. I don't even like handling birds because they seem so fragile to me. I've always had an affinity for wolves, the lone wolf rather than the pack wolf. Most everything else (especially recently) is cats of all kinds. I do get other visiting totem spirits, especially if I have to learn a lesson more than once :oops: but luckily that doesn't happen too often.

[Isabella]

There was an interesting post on the Rogue's Board about animal totems and I was wondering if anyone had more information on Totems and familiars, the differences and how you can tell which is which, and why...

:meow:

It is considered that a "totem" is the animal medicine born into the being, and that each person carries with them seven animal spirits through out their lives that are residence that don't change but always stay with us. Other animal totems come and go as the messages from our guides tell us we need new medicines to serve the purpous in our lives.

The totems that walk with you communicate through experiances with animals in your lives. The best two instances I have to offer you are these. When my husband was in college living with a family in Dayton they had a wolf-dog living with them. She often became more wolf than dog on occations and one occation was when my husband went to take her inside by grabbing hold of her collar, and was bit by her on then hand. Native Americans believe that to be bit by an animal is a sign that they are "initating" you into their clan. Since he was bitten, he's experianced things that only can be considered as "respect to the bite". Clairscent is one of those things he has observed that has become very strong in him. Clairscent is the psychic gift of being able to smell. (Pretty ovious huh?) He also in incredibly loyal, kind and extremely protective of folks he's close to.

One totem I am connected with is Spider. Since I was a kid, I've always been bitten, or had spiders around me. They are the natural artist, creator being, and of couse Grandmother SpiderWoman, from the Dine (Navajo) Nation. I am an artist by trade, working in jewelry, henna, and also work with Reiki, which are some of the calling signs of Spider People. I am also born under the Otter, which gives me some issues, because I can either be very very soica when in crowdsl or when not in crowds very unsocial. It's a common call sign of otters.

I consider that Totems are allies, because the animals you assoicate yourself with is intellegent, and can communicate. Also totem dreams the animal that comes to you are intellegent, and can speak. Familiars are in essence our pets, or furbuddies we have in our homes. They are loyal and gracious to us. They play a different role in my eyes than a totem. Totems and the medicine they work with can heal, connect and create beautiful things in our lives. :) They are more than in my humble opinion a "familiar", because they are allies to us, equals.

[Isabella]

There was an interesting post on the Rogue's Board about animal totems and I was wondering if anyone had more information on Totems and familiars, the differences and how you can tell which is which, and why...

:meow:

It is considered that a "totem" is the animal medicine born into the being, and that each person carries with them seven animal spirits through out their lives that are residence that don't change but always stay with us. Other animal totems come and go as the messages from our guides tell us we need new medicines to serve the purpous in our lives.

The totems that walk with you communicate through experiances with animals in your lives. The best two instances I have to offer you are these. When my husband was in college living with a family in Dayton they had a wolf-dog living with them. She often became more wolf than dog on occations and one occation was when my husband went to take her inside by grabbing hold of her collar, and was bit by her on then hand. Native Americans believe that to be bit by an animal is a sign that they are "initating" you into their clan. Since he was bitten, he's experianced things that only can be considered as "respect to the bite". Clairscent is one of those things he has observed that has become very strong in him. Clairscent is the psychic gift of being able to smell. (Pretty ovious huh?) He also in incredibly loyal, kind and extremely protective of folks he's close to.

One totem I am connected with is Spider. Since I was a kid, I've always been bitten, or had spiders around me. They are the natural artist, creator being, and of couse Grandmother SpiderWoman, from the Dine (Navajo) Nation. I am an artist by trade, working in jewelry, henna, and also work with Reiki, which are some of the calling signs of Spider People. I am also born under the Otter, which gives me some issues, because I can either be very very soica when in crowdsl or when not in crowds very unsocial. It's a common call sign of otters.

I consider that Totems are allies, because the animals you assoicate yourself with is intellegent, and can communicate. Also totem dreams the animal that comes to you are intellegent, and can speak. Familiars are in essence our pets, or furbuddies we have in our homes. They are loyal and gracious to us. They play a different role in my eyes than a totem. Totems and the medicine they work with can heal, connect and create beautiful things in our lives. :) They are more than in my humble opinion a "familiar", because they are allies to us, equals.

[emalia]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

[emalia]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

[biker]

An I was named after a golden retriever, not the drink.

.

we named the dog Indiana........ Ya sure about that sweets????

[biker]

An I was named after a golden retriever, not the drink.

.

we named the dog Indiana........ Ya sure about that sweets????

[Antonio_della_furfante]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

well generally there are a few ways:

1) if you happen to have a few wild animals in your area that act really strange, repatedly around you. For example I had a group of Crows hanging around my house almost all the time and one would hang outside my works door (which I could see) and caw and make all sorts of noise (they really really didn't want me to have that job, I don't blame them. I didn't either)

2) if you dream about a animal repeatedly, if it talks to you or just appears agian and agian then thats a good key. Bear did that for me, he just kinda showed up out of no where (you have a huge brown bear appear in a room smaller than a studio and not notice!) I looked at him and he says to me "I have some important medicin for you.." I looked at him agian, blinked thought about it for a moment and said 'can we do this in dream time I need sleep..' He simply said ok. it was the next day that I found that Bear is also a deam magic totem.

3) if you belive in sprits of some manner or anouther they will show up and give you the low down. Most aren't really for pomp and circumstance (see bear referance above) but this isn't always the case.

I think that covers it.

on a slightly diffrent subject:
There is one "catagory" of totems that I have seen that has been pretty up in the air as if they "qualify" as totems...those are the Mythic Totems. Ie Dragons, Phoinexes, Griffens ect ect. I personally think that they are, myself Having Dragon as a totem.

What are your thoughts?

[Antonio_della_furfante]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

well generally there are a few ways:

1) if you happen to have a few wild animals in your area that act really strange, repatedly around you. For example I had a group of Crows hanging around my house almost all the time and one would hang outside my works door (which I could see) and caw and make all sorts of noise (they really really didn't want me to have that job, I don't blame them. I didn't either)

2) if you dream about a animal repeatedly, if it talks to you or just appears agian and agian then thats a good key. Bear did that for me, he just kinda showed up out of no where (you have a huge brown bear appear in a room smaller than a studio and not notice!) I looked at him and he says to me "I have some important medicin for you.." I looked at him agian, blinked thought about it for a moment and said 'can we do this in dream time I need sleep..' He simply said ok. it was the next day that I found that Bear is also a deam magic totem.

3) if you belive in sprits of some manner or anouther they will show up and give you the low down. Most aren't really for pomp and circumstance (see bear referance above) but this isn't always the case.

I think that covers it.

on a slightly diffrent subject:
There is one "catagory" of totems that I have seen that has been pretty up in the air as if they "qualify" as totems...those are the Mythic Totems. Ie Dragons, Phoinexes, Griffens ect ect. I personally think that they are, myself Having Dragon as a totem.

What are your thoughts?

[Isabella]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

well generally there are a few ways:

1) if you happen to have a few wild animals in your area that act really strange, repatedly around you. For example I had a group of Crows hanging around my house almost all the time and one would hang outside my works door (which I could see) and caw and make all sorts of noise (they really really didn't want me to have that job, I don't blame them. I didn't either)

2) if you dream about a animal repeatedly, if it talks to you or just appears agian and agian then thats a good key. Bear did that for me, he just kinda showed up out of no where (you have a huge brown bear appear in a room smaller than a studio and not notice!) I looked at him and he says to me "I have some important medicin for you.." I looked at him agian, blinked thought about it for a moment and said 'can we do this in dream time I need sleep..' He simply said ok. it was the next day that I found that Bear is also a deam magic totem.

3) if you belive in sprits of some manner or anouther they will show up and give you the low down. Most aren't really for pomp and circumstance (see bear referance above) but this isn't always the case.

I think that covers it.

on a slightly diffrent subject:
There is one "catagory" of totems that I have seen that has been pretty up in the air as if they "qualify" as totems...those are the Mythic Totems. Ie Dragons, Phoinexes, Griffens ect ect. I personally think that they are, myself Having Dragon as a totem.

What are your thoughts?

Yup, agreed, you do have different totems beyond the "regular" ones.

To find your totem you can either find a really cool open minded shaman that is willing to communicate for you, or you can do a meditation asking asking your gudes to bring to you your animals.

Some people find totems by a.) they collect them. B.) they have always loved them. c.) theirs a electric spark that happens when they see them.

Like for me I LOVE Elephants. I just love them! I also found out speaking of spirit, that my grandmother was a big lover of Elephants. I never knew her, so concindence? I don't honestly think so, I think it was a sign that I was in touch with her. I also will feel her very strongly when I am doing a sewing project, and get all turned around. I'll feel like someone is guiding my thoughts toward to the correct answer, or feel the answer blossom into my mind. It's been an amazing life saver!

So, you can do that, or they do have animal totem cards. I am not ashamed to say I used them to find out my totems. They also have totem stones. Consider those as an ally to finding out more about your animal totems.

Isabella

[Isabella]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

well generally there are a few ways:

1) if you happen to have a few wild animals in your area that act really strange, repatedly around you. For example I had a group of Crows hanging around my house almost all the time and one would hang outside my works door (which I could see) and caw and make all sorts of noise (they really really didn't want me to have that job, I don't blame them. I didn't either)

2) if you dream about a animal repeatedly, if it talks to you or just appears agian and agian then thats a good key. Bear did that for me, he just kinda showed up out of no where (you have a huge brown bear appear in a room smaller than a studio and not notice!) I looked at him and he says to me "I have some important medicin for you.." I looked at him agian, blinked thought about it for a moment and said 'can we do this in dream time I need sleep..' He simply said ok. it was the next day that I found that Bear is also a deam magic totem.

3) if you belive in sprits of some manner or anouther they will show up and give you the low down. Most aren't really for pomp and circumstance (see bear referance above) but this isn't always the case.

I think that covers it.

on a slightly diffrent subject:
There is one "catagory" of totems that I have seen that has been pretty up in the air as if they "qualify" as totems...those are the Mythic Totems. Ie Dragons, Phoinexes, Griffens ect ect. I personally think that they are, myself Having Dragon as a totem.

What are your thoughts?

Yup, agreed, you do have different totems beyond the "regular" ones.

To find your totem you can either find a really cool open minded shaman that is willing to communicate for you, or you can do a meditation asking asking your gudes to bring to you your animals.

Some people find totems by a.) they collect them. B.) they have always loved them. c.) theirs a electric spark that happens when they see them.

Like for me I LOVE Elephants. I just love them! I also found out speaking of spirit, that my grandmother was a big lover of Elephants. I never knew her, so concindence? I don't honestly think so, I think it was a sign that I was in touch with her. I also will feel her very strongly when I am doing a sewing project, and get all turned around. I'll feel like someone is guiding my thoughts toward to the correct answer, or feel the answer blossom into my mind. It's been an amazing life saver!

So, you can do that, or they do have animal totem cards. I am not ashamed to say I used them to find out my totems. They also have totem stones. Consider those as an ally to finding out more about your animal totems.

Isabella

[Antonio_della_furfante]

Yup, agreed, you do have different totems beyond the "regular" ones.


Man didn't know it was that obvious.. :shock: :wink:

[Antonio_della_furfante]

Yup, agreed, you do have different totems beyond the "regular" ones.


Man didn't know it was that obvious.. :shock: :wink:

[Isabella]

*grins* Well it be!

[Isabella]

*grins* Well it be!

[emalia]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

well generally there are a few ways:

1) if you happen to have a few wild animals in your area that act really strange, repatedly around you. For example I had a group of Crows hanging around my house almost all the time and one would hang outside my works door (which I could see) and caw and make all sorts of noise (they really really didn't want me to have that job, I don't blame them. I didn't either)

2) if you dream about a animal repeatedly, if it talks to you or just appears agian and agian then thats a good key. Bear did that for me, he just kinda showed up out of no where (you have a huge brown bear appear in a room smaller than a studio and not notice!) I looked at him and he says to me "I have some important medicin for you.." I looked at him agian, blinked thought about it for a moment and said 'can we do this in dream time I need sleep..' He simply said ok. it was the next day that I found that Bear is also a deam magic totem.

3) if you belive in sprits of some manner or anouther they will show up and give you the low down. Most aren't really for pomp and circumstance (see bear referance above) but this isn't always the case.

I think that covers it.

on a slightly diffrent subject:
There is one "catagory" of totems that I have seen that has been pretty up in the air as if they "qualify" as totems...those are the Mythic Totems. Ie Dragons, Phoinexes, Griffens ect ect. I personally think that they are, myself Having Dragon as a totem.

What are your thoughts?

Well, I know that Blue Jays are the bird of change.. I used to see them ALL the time.. They would be everywhere I turned... On my front doorstep, my balcony/porch, my parking spot at work, I would see them in trees while walking. So I get the obvious part. They were telling me something had to change. Well, it did, and they went away. Now I see them occasionally, and it isn't the I have amessage for you, but it is Hey, I'm a blue jay, time for me to go now. I also have a Cardinal that stops by the back yard when I come home sometime. Now, I know that the Cardinal is Shannon's grammpa, but I am not sure where they fit in for me, or what they bring. But like I said, I only see it every once in awhile.

As for deep connections, I love all animals. I have only been bit once, and come after one other time. My dog bit me when I was 9. I snuck up on here while getting a brush for my hair when she was sleeping. Entirely my fault. The other time was when I was working at the Humane Society, a chow started for me but I was able to close the cage fast enough. Same chow bit a co-worker later that week. We were trying to wait her out, but we couldn't after that. She had just come in when she came after me.

[emalia]

Well.. How do we figure out what our totems are?

well generally there are a few ways:

1) if you happen to have a few wild animals in your area that act really strange, repatedly around you. For example I had a group of Crows hanging around my house almost all the time and one would hang outside my works door (which I could see) and caw and make all sorts of noise (they really really didn't want me to have that job, I don't blame them. I didn't either)

2) if you dream about a animal repeatedly, if it talks to you or just appears agian and agian then thats a good key. Bear did that for me, he just kinda showed up out of no where (you have a huge brown bear appear in a room smaller than a studio and not notice!) I looked at him and he says to me "I have some important medicin for you.." I looked at him agian, blinked thought about it for a moment and said 'can we do this in dream time I need sleep..' He simply said ok. it was the next day that I found that Bear is also a deam magic totem.

3) if you belive in sprits of some manner or anouther they will show up and give you the low down. Most aren't really for pomp and circumstance (see bear referance above) but this isn't always the case.

I think that covers it.

on a slightly diffrent subject:
There is one "catagory" of totems that I have seen that has been pretty up in the air as if they "qualify" as totems...those are the Mythic Totems. Ie Dragons, Phoinexes, Griffens ect ect. I personally think that they are, myself Having Dragon as a totem.

What are your thoughts?

Well, I know that Blue Jays are the bird of change.. I used to see them ALL the time.. They would be everywhere I turned... On my front doorstep, my balcony/porch, my parking spot at work, I would see them in trees while walking. So I get the obvious part. They were telling me something had to change. Well, it did, and they went away. Now I see them occasionally, and it isn't the I have amessage for you, but it is Hey, I'm a blue jay, time for me to go now. I also have a Cardinal that stops by the back yard when I come home sometime. Now, I know that the Cardinal is Shannon's grammpa, but I am not sure where they fit in for me, or what they bring. But like I said, I only see it every once in awhile.

As for deep connections, I love all animals. I have only been bit once, and come after one other time. My dog bit me when I was 9. I snuck up on here while getting a brush for my hair when she was sleeping. Entirely my fault. The other time was when I was working at the Humane Society, a chow started for me but I was able to close the cage fast enough. Same chow bit a co-worker later that week. We were trying to wait her out, but we couldn't after that. She had just come in when she came after me.

[Absinthe d'Accalia]

Minor thread jack: When I worked at the vet, chows were one of the only dog breeds that I couldn't 'read.' They can be looking at you, tongue lolling, tail wagging, twinkle in their unreadable little eys and then just try to chomp the bejeesus out of you. :roll:

[Absinthe d'Accalia]

Minor thread jack: When I worked at the vet, chows were one of the only dog breeds that I couldn't 'read.' They can be looking at you, tongue lolling, tail wagging, twinkle in their unreadable little eys and then just try to chomp the bejeesus out of you. :roll:

[emalia]

Minor thread jack: When I worked at the vet, chows were one of the only dog breeds that I couldn't 'read.' They can be looking at you, tongue lolling, tail wagging, twinkle in their unreadable little eys and then just try to chomp the bejeesus out of you. :roll:

Yeah no kidding.. they are quite unpredictable. The only one that I have met and gotten along with is Bear, my friend Michelle's dog. He worships the ground I walk on. He has forsaken offeres of food for my attention. He truly has picked me as his person. I just can't keep him. So I visit. ;)

[emalia]

Minor thread jack: When I worked at the vet, chows were one of the only dog breeds that I couldn't 'read.' They can be looking at you, tongue lolling, tail wagging, twinkle in their unreadable little eys and then just try to chomp the bejeesus out of you. :roll:

Yeah no kidding.. they are quite unpredictable. The only one that I have met and gotten along with is Bear, my friend Michelle's dog. He worships the ground I walk on. He has forsaken offeres of food for my attention. He truly has picked me as his person. I just can't keep him. So I visit. ;)

[Isabella]

That's cute and ironic my dad has a chow named Teddy. ;)

I see Blue Jays alot. They are alot a bird of that flies and walks between worlds. It's a wonderful spirit totem for those who like to work with spirit. :)

[Isabella]

That's cute and ironic my dad has a chow named Teddy. ;)

I see Blue Jays alot. They are alot a bird of that flies and walks between worlds. It's a wonderful spirit totem for those who like to work with spirit. :)

[biker]

[quote="Nitestar"]Being Native American, A totem or familiar is a part of your spirit to show you different ways on the path, [quote]

Have you seen the history channel "taboo" series?/ the one titled obession? what do you think of the guy allegedly native american who's trying to transform himself into a tiger>>???? he's gotten a facial tattoo, whisker implants and his upper lip clefted.

[biker]

[quote="Nitestar"]Being Native American, A totem or familiar is a part of your spirit to show you different ways on the path, [quote]

Have you seen the history channel "taboo" series?/ the one titled obession? what do you think of the guy allegedly native american who's trying to transform himself into a tiger>>???? he's gotten a facial tattoo, whisker implants and his upper lip clefted.

[LashaLaRouge]

The blue jays could have just been a totem that stopped into your life to send you a mesage that you obviously heeded (as has been said some are with you all the time others just come and go) they may make repeated appearences later to remind you and keep you on track, as for the cardinal if you feel such a strong affintiy for it, it could be a perminent connection or one that carries a message of whatever spirit you feel attatched, mabe comfort or reassurance...

A good way to find is mediation, some shamans are willing to help you do guided meditations to find your totems.
Some poeple just kind of 'stumble' across them...
Ive found mine through both ways...
Wolf and fox i found through guided meditation, though both play dual parts and aparently have great connection to my being (more than the others) and also have roles beyond there usual, the wolf for me not only if the teacher but also the protective, whereas the fox has the cyote traits of mischeif as well as its 'unseen' traits...
The raven began to show itself in my dreams an awfull lot as i began my journey and has stayed this long, i think he has always and will always be there

My 4th and only other i know as a perminent is Tiger, though im not sure what the tiger is, anyone?!

and of course there have been plenty to come and go into and out of my life with passing messages to keep me on track. and lessons i must learn.

I very much identify wiht htose of you that state their affinity to animals, im more connected to them than i am my own species.
More than once a wild animal will aproach me...mabe a year before i moved here i sat infront of a wild fox who just sat there looked at me...eventually it ran off and brought back a rabbit and ate it infront of me (lucky im not squeemish)
I was alwasy the one the sick and injured wildlife (or local strays) would find, and always had a collection of birds with mending wings and at one point even a fox with a broken leg came 'knocking' on my door...
And when younger i could only be pried away from the zoo kicking and screaming, i would never leave of my own accord, and if i ever wandered off from my parents they knew i could be easily found either on the wrong side of the barrier at the 'wolf den' sat with my face pressed up against the glass TALKING to a wolf that was sat right on the other side...or hanging over the tiger pit talking to them. theyd laugh to see me talking to the animals and one of the poor keepers that knew me shaking there head, laughing and offering to my parents that the wolves would raise me...
(also lucky i knew almost all the keepers)
Yes im rambling now...

as for the difference between totems and familiars, totems spiritual and very much a part of ourselves.
Familiars are more earthly and tend to be your companions in life, there the ones that connect in such a way that you knwo your supposed to be together, tradition would have it said that a familiar would aid a witch in her magical workings...
Me i just happen to have ferrets! lol

[Antonio_della_furfante]

:D yay! more fox people :!:

[Dragonfly]

You know...it's really hard to find other fox people :(

Maybe because we're so sneaky and we can get around without being seen when we want to? :wink:
Seriously, I've never personally met another individual with fox as their totem.
Also, hey, does anyone notice that people with dog totems...tend to get along really well with other dog totems? I realized most of my friends were wolf, coyote or plain ol' dog.

Also...does anyone realize there's any particular totem that they just can NOT get along with? for me it's black panther people...they immediately put me on edge.

[Eric McTavish]

must be the Cat in me but as long as they have milk and are willing to rub me I'm fine!!!
LOL sorry Im in a relayy weird mood!

[Antonio_della_furfante]

must be the Cat in me but as long as they have milk and are willing to rub me I'm fine!!!
LOL sorry Im in a relayy weird mood!

from what I have seen this is a normal thing for you :P

(Oh I have noticed most Rogues have a very cat like metality (large and small cat) it's amuseing to watch)

I really have little issues with dealing with alot of totem-people. The twist is it's the people not the totem that I have issues with. *shrugs* I judge people on who they are, not what they claim to be.

I am sure most of the fox & snake ppl will understand that (I hope) at least.

[Katerinka Kotenoka]

Okay, I'm gonna start a little wierd here... I have no religious affiliations & have never thought of any creator(s). I do numerology, astrology, runes, and tarot cards. Is there a religion for me? I don't think so. Animal for me? Probably not in the singular. I love all sizes of cats (if it's a house cat, the fatter the better), dogs are wonderful (live in the country so one side of woods has coyotes, another as wild dogs, and the third has wolves, and I get to see random flashes of foxes once in a blue moon), fascinated by sharks (look at the power they have over people-Jaws? that and they're beautiful), love dragons and gryphons (as a kid dreamed of being a mermaid but that may be because I swam like a fish). Any ideas on what I'm with? Except for a grudge against turtles I pretty much will take any animal... except snakes (Ma hates them).

[KissMeKate]

(Oh I have noticed most Rogues have a very cat like metality (large and small cat) it's amuseing to watch)



Antonio - You have quite a few of those catl-like traits too, but that could also be the fox in you!

[Constance Innuendo]

being a snake is not a bad thing

[Antonio_della_furfante]

being a snake is not a bad thing

Nope not at all.

[Mistress Bearcat]

Katerinka scribed: Okay, I'm gonna start a little wierd here... I have no religious affiliations & have never thought of any creator(s). I do numerology, astrology, runes, and tarot cards. Is there a religion for me? I don't think so

Ah, dear girl, you follow the greatest 'religion' there is. Respect and love for the wild, the 'what is', not what humans have dreamed up because they can't deal with the idea that there's no big daddy watching out for them.

Take pride in being a pagan. The closest thing to an organized religion I've ever come is respect for some aspects of Shinto (Japanese spirt honoring)

Druidism is fine, too.

And what's wrong with turtles? Where would Discworld be without great A'tuin?

Bearcat the pagan, and proud of it.

[Katerinka Kotenoka]

The turtle story is an odd one from my childhood, it is the only animal I don't like for any reason at all (some I just don't like qualities they have, but that's different). Oh it looks all innocent, I'm a slow, helpless little turtle, but it isn't... it's smart and tricky. It's the only animal I'll swear to try and nick so it spins like a top but doesn't get hurt... I don't want to hurt it everyone, let that be known... but it is an old vendetta... I just want to watch it spin. And no I've never crushed one by "accident" or accident.