In our busy lives today we often overlook the significance of nature around us. Through Nature, the Creator often
speaks to us but what use is it if we do not have enough understanding to listen to grasp the message. Every person,
regardless of path should learn to have more concern for and a better understanding of  Nature. If we continue to
allow the mindless destruction of our environment, we will awaken one day to find that Mother Earth has taken back
over and tossed humanity to the side in the same way we have tossed her to the side at this time.

As you seek to learn more from Mother Nature, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, our Animal
Totems and Guides choose us, we do not choose them. The difference between a totem and a guide is that a totem is
something we are usually born to and a guide is an energy that comes and goes as the needs in our lives change.

Every animal, bird, insect and plant has its own unique energy and lesson to teach. Do not get caught up in what is
glamorous but in what is true. The lowly cockroach for example is annoying, yes but teaches perseverance and
adaptability. If you are going through a time of upheaval then cockroach has a lesson to teach you. I know....but see
the message not the messenger.

To find your animal guides, you need to simply begin to pay attention to the signs that are already there. What
animal shows up repeatedly in your life? Do you dream of a particular creature repeatedly? You should also notice
what animal instills fear within you. This can be a reflection of fears or flaws within yourself that you need to come to
terms with. For example, if you have a fear of being attacked by a bear every time you set foot in a wooded area then
perhaps you fear authority and those who are more powerful than you. The best way to combat this would be to
start with studying bear. What causes it to attack? How does this make you feel?

Your totem animal will be discovered in the same way but it is one that you are generally born with so begin your
search in childhood, meaning that you should remember back to what came to you then as Owl came to me.

You can have more than one totem and more than one guide. Your totems will never change but you may find one
more subdued at different times in your life while another is more prevalent. Your guide animals will of course come
and go.

Be sure to take the time to truly study the animals that come to you. Owl is seen as very negative in many teachings
due to its mystery but upon study we find that owl is nocturnal and deliberately avoids humans lending to its
mystery. Barn owls actually mate for life and represent stability and family so what seems negative really isn't.
Education is the best combatant to fear.

This is how I discovered my totem (which should be clear to everyone...lol)... That it is Owl. When I was a little girl,
there was a little barn owl that would come and sit in the tree by my window. I did not pay attention to this until
years later when I was seeking out my totem and in the same way as when I was a little girl, each night for 7 days a
barn owl came and perched outside of my window. Now, we lived in town at this point and while owls certainly are in
town, they do not usually let themselves be known. As it would speak to me, I spoke back to it. It was a unique and
profound experience.  The name that I use was then gifted to me by WhiteWolf and while in the spectrum of Native
American energies, it may carry no meaning, but I use it to honor him.

Once you have discovered your totem animal, honor it by taking an active stance in protecting its environment and
learning more about it. This also helps you to learn the lessons that it has for you.

As you browse through the general meanings I have posted, please keep in mind that each is a brief explanation of the
meanings of animals. There is much more to each animal than what is listed and this is meant to only be a guide to
help get you started on your quest. Stay tuned for a guided meditation intended to help you find your animal guides
and totem,
Life's short...fly groovy!
ShyOwl's Nest
Animal Totems