FULL MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE DRUMMING CIRCLE

Join us for the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse Drumming Circle. On the Medicine Wheel. Wednesday, October 8th at 7:00-8:00pm. 
At the Witch's Brew, Fla. Ave., Palm Harbor, Fl.
 Native American teaching for this Moon Cycle; Learn the animal, plant and mineral totem. Drumming for peace harmony unity and compassion for all beings.
FULL MOON DRUMMING CIRCLE

ON THE MEDICINE WHEEL AT THE WITCHES’ BREW

JOIN US FOR THE 10TH MOON CYCLE OF TRUTH

“LIVE THE TRUTH”

EACH MOON CYCLE IS A LESSON IN OUR SEARCH FOR TRUTH. WE HAVE MANY MEDICINE HELPERS FOR THIS FULL MOON. RAVEN THE ANIMAL, JASPER IS THE STONE, MULLEIN THE PLANT AND THE CLAN ELEMENT AIR REPRESENTED BY BUTTERFLY. Rev. Caroline Dawley facilitating
Gratitude offering apprec. pl. bring instruments. Everyone is welcome.

FULL MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE DRUMMING CIRCLE

Join us for the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse Drumming Circle. On the Medicine Wheel. Wednesday, October 8th at 7:00-8:00pm. 
At the Witch's Brew, Fla. Ave., Palm Harbor, Fl.
 Native American teaching for this Moon Cycle; Learn the animal, plant and mineral totem. Drumming for peace harmony unity and compassion for all beings.
FULL MOON DRUMMING CIRCLE

ON THE MEDICINE WHEEL AT THE WITCHES’ BREW

JOIN US FOR THE 10TH MOON CYCLE OF TRUTH

“LIVE THE TRUTH”

EACH MOON CYCLE IS A LESSON IN OUR SEARCH FOR TRUTH. WE HAVE MANY MEDICINE HELPERS FOR THIS FULL MOON. RAVEN THE ANIMAL, JASPER IS THE STONE, MULLEIN THE PLANT AND THE CLAN ELEMENT AIR REPRESENTED BY BUTTERFLY. Rev. Caroline Dawley facilitating
Gratitude offering apprec. pl. bring instruments. Everyone is welcome.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE CEREMONY

SEPTEMBER 21, 2014  INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE CEREMONY
ON THE MEDICINE WHEEL.  EVERYONE IS WELCOME.

7:00PM AT THE WITCH'S BREW, FLORIDA AVE., PALM HARBOR, FL.

DRUMMING FOR PEACE,  MEDITATION - IMAGINE PEACE, LIGHTING THE WORLD PEACE FLAME RITUAL

JOINING HEARTS AND FAITHS AROUND THE GLOBE STANDING TOGETHER
FOR PEACE NOW.  

GRATITUDE OFFERING APPRECIATED,   REV. CAROLINE DAWLEY FAC.

ANIMAL TOTEMS and Their Symbolism

ign.com

Native American animal symbols can encompass just about all the animals, and their symbolic representation to the many tribes of the Americas.

To narrow down the focus a bit, this page is devoted to birth animals or zodiac animals.

Many Native American cultures have the belief that a person is assigned an animal upon the time of birth.

Below are interpreted Native American symbols of the zodiac and the characteristics for each one.

Another source of Native American animal symbols is the Animal Totems is a link to a page on this website.

Otter: Jan 20 - Feb 18
A little quirky, and unorthodox, the Otter is a hard one to figure sometimes. Perceived as unconventional, the Otter methods aren't the first ones chosen to get the job done. This is a big mistake on the part of others because although unconventional, the Otter's methods are usually quite effective. Yes, the Otter has unusual way of looking at things, but he/she is equipped with a brilliant imagination and intelligence, allowing him/her an edge over every one else. Often very perceptive and intuitive, the Otter makes a very good friend, and can be very attentive. In a nurturing environment the Otter is sensitive, sympathetic, courageous, and honest. Left to his/her own devices, the Otter can be unscrupulous, lewd, rebellious, and isolated. See other water totems here.

Wolf: Feb 19 Mar 20
Deeply emotional, and wholly passionate, the Wolf is the lover of the zodiac in both the physical and philosophical sense of the word. The Wolf understands that all we need is love, and is fully capable of providing it. Juxtaposed with his/her fierce independence this Native American animal symbol is a bit of a contradiction in terms. Needing his/her freedom, yet still being quite gentle and compassionate we get the picture of the "lone wolf" with this sign. In a nurturing environment the Wolf is intensely passionate, generous, deeply affectionate, and gentle. Left to his/her own devices the Wolf can become impractical, recalcitrant, obsessive, and vindictive. See also this page on Wolf totem meanings.

Falcon: Mar 21 Apr 19
A natural born leader, the Falcon can always be looked upon for clear judgment in sticky situations. Furthermore, the characteristics for this Native American animal symbol never wastes time, rather he/she strikes while the iron is hot, and takes action in what must be done. Ever persistent, and always taking the initiative, the Falcon is a gem of a personality to have for projects or team sports. The Falcon can be a little on the conceited side but he/she is usually right in his/her opinions so a little arrogance is understood. In a supportive environmental the Falcon "soars" in his/her ability to maintain passion and fire in relationships, and always remaining compassionate. Left to his/her own devices, the Falcon can be vain, rude, intolerant, impatient, and over-sensitive. See more information on Falcon meanings here.

Beaver: Apr 20 May 20
Take charge, adapt, overcome this is the Beaver motto. Mostly business, the Beaver is gets the job at hand done with maximum efficiency and aplomb. Strategic, and cunning the Beaver is a force to be reckoned with in matters of business and combat. One might also think twice about engaging the Beaver in a match of wits as his/her mental acuity is razor sharp. The Beaver has everything going for him/her however tendencies toward "my way or the highway" get them in trouble. Yes, they are usually right, but the bearer of this Native American animal symbol may need to work on tact. In a nurturing environment the Beaver can be compassionate, generous, helpful, and loyal. Left to his/her own devices the Beaver can be nervous, cowardly, possessive, arrogant, and over-demanding. Learn more about the Beaver totem here.

Deer: May 21 Jun 20
This Native American animal symbol is the muse of the zodiac. The Deer is inspiring lively and quick-witted. With a tailor-made humor, the Deer has a tendency to get a laugh out of anyone. Excellent ability for vocalizing, the Deer is a consummate conversationalist. This combined with his/her natural intelligence make the Deer a must-have guest at dinner parties. Always aware of his/her surroundings, and even more aware of his/her appearance, the Deer can be a bit self-involved. However, the Deer's narcissism is overlooked because of his/her congeniality and affability. In a supportive environment the Deer's natural liveliness and sparkly personality radiate even more. He/she is an inspiring force in any nurturing relationship. Left to his/her own devices the Deer can be selfish, moody, impatient, lazy, and two-faced. Read more about Deer totems here.

Woodpecker: Jun 21 Jul 21
Woodpeckers are usually the most nuturing of all the Native American animal symbols. The consummate listener, totally empathic and understanding, the Woodpecker is the one to have on your side when you need support. Of course, they make wonderful parents, and equally wonderful friends and partners. Another proverbial feather in the Woodpeckers cap is the tendency to be naturally frugal, resourceful, and organized. In a nurturing environment the Woodpecker is of course caring, devoted, and very romantic. Left to his/her own devices the Woodpecker can be possessive, angry, jealous, and spiteful. Learn more about Woodpecker meanings.

Salmon: Jul 22 Aug 21
Electric, focused, intuitive, and wholly creative, the Salmon is a real live-wire. His/her energy is palpable. A natural motivator, the Salmon's confidence and enthusiasm is easily infectious. Soon, everybody is onboard with the Salmon even if the idea seems too hair-brained to work. Generous, intelligent, and intuitive, it's no wonder why the Salmon has no shortage of friends. This Native American animal symbol expresses a need for purpose and goals, and has no trouble finding volunteers for his/her personal crusades. In a supportive environment, the Salmon is stable, calm, sensual, and giving. Left to his/her own devices, those that bear this Native American animal symbol can be egotistical, vulgar, and intolerant of others. See symbolic meaning of fish here.

Bear: Aug 22 Sep 21
Pragmatic, and methodical the Bear is the one to call when a steady hand is needed. The Bear's practicality and level-headedness makes him/her an excellent business partner. Usually the voice of reason in most scenarios, the Bear is a good balance for Owls. The Bear is also gifted with an enormous heart, and a penchant for generosity. However, one might not know it as the Bear tends to be very modest, and a bit shy. In a loving environment this Native American animal symbol showers love and generosity in return. Further, the Bear has a capacity for patience and temperance, which makes him/her excellent teachers and mentors. Left to his/her own devices the bear can be skeptical, sloth, small-minded and reclusive. Read more about Native American bear symbolism here.

Raven: Sep 22 Oct 22
Highly enthusiastic, and a natural entrepreneur, the Crow is quite a charmer. But he/she doesn't have to work at being charming it comes easily. Everyone recognizes the Crow's easy energy, and everyone turns to the Crow for his/her ideas and opinions. This is because the Crow is both idealistic and diplomatic and is quite ingenious. In nurturing environments this Native American animal symbol is easy-going, can be romantic, and soft-spoken. Further, the crow can be quite patient, and intuitive in relationships. Left to his/her own devices, the Crow can be demanding, inconsistent, vindictive, and abrasive. Learn more about Raven symboism here.

Snake: Oct 23 Nov 22
Most shamans are born under this Native American animal symbol. The Snake is a natural in all matters of spirit. Easily attuned to the ethereal realm the Snake makes an excellent spiritual leader. Also respected for his/her healing capacities, the Snake also excels in medical professions. The Snake's preoccupation with matters intangible often lead others to view them as mysterious, and sometimes frightening. True, the Snake can be secretive, and a bit dark he/she is also quite sensitive, and caring. In a supportive relationship the cool Snake can be passionate, inspiring, humorous, and helpful. Left to his/her own devices, the Snake can be despondent, violent, and prone to abnormal mood swings. Learn more about the Snake totem here.

Owl: Nov 23 Dec 21
Changeable and mutable as the wind, the Owl is a tough one to pin down. Warm, natural, with an easy-going nature, the Owl is friend to the world. The bearer of this Native American animal symbol is notorious for engaging in life at full speed, and whole-hearted loves adventure. This can be to his/her detriment as the Owl can be reckless, careless, and thoughtless. Owls make great artists, teachers, and conservationists. However, due to his/her adaptability and versatility the Owl would likely excel in any occupation. In a supportive, nurturing environment the Owl is sensitive, enthusiastic, and an attentive listener. Left to his/her own devices, the Owl can be excessive, overindulgent, bitter, and belligerent. Learn more about Owl totem meanings here.

Goose: Dec 22 Jan 19
If you want something done give it to the Goose. Persevering, dogged, and ambitious to a fault, the Goose sets goals for accomplishment, and always obtains them. The goose is determined to succeed at all cost not for the approval of other but those with this Native American animal symbol competes with his/her own internal foe. Driven is the watchword for the Goose's dominating personality trait which makes them excellent in business and competitive sports. When tempered with supportive, nurturing family and friends, the Goose excels in all things he/she attempts. In a loving environment the Goose can be very passionate, humorous, gregarious, and even sensual. However, lead to his/her own devises, the Goose may fall into obsessive or addictive behaviors that will inevitably be his/her demise. Learn more about Goose symbolism here..

I hope you have enjoyed these Native American animal symbols. 

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JUNE - CORN PLANTING MOON MAY 21 - JUNE 20

CORN PLANTING MOON  May 21 to June 20th

This is the last moon of the East Gate Direction on the Medicine Wheel.  People born under the  Planting Moon have Moss Agate as their Mineral Totem, Yarrow is their Plant totem and Deer is their animal totem.   Their colors are White and Green.  They are of the Butterfly Clan who elemental power is AIR.

 The Clan Mother of this Moon is Listening Woman; Mother of the Stillness and inner knowing.  The keeper of  discernment and introspection.  The interpreter of Messages from the spirit world.  The counselor and advisor.   She teaches us now to enter the Stillness and hear our heart’s still small voice.

She teaches how to listen to the inner knowing we carry in our spiritual essences.  And how to understand body language and unspoken thoughts.   How to listen to the voices and opinions of others and the voice of the Ancestors.  

When  you experience this Moon Cycle of Truth, you will learn abilities to be more sensitive, fast moving and appreciate the beauty found in all life forms.  You will learn an expanded world view; embracing with respect all life and all perspectives.  Deer people have such high energy that it can raise the energy of people around them; they make good friends and will encourage you and help you through any life difficulties by opening up to them and to life.  Deer people genuinely like people and will try to make their friends feel better. Like their stone the Moss Agate and their Plant, Yarrow, they are healers and have a gift of helping people see everything more clearly.

Being of the Butterfly clan,  Deer People tend to flit from one thing to another, yet because  they are born during the season of planting, ideas are grounded.

on are clever, resourceful and creative. They are most compatible with Raven and Otter people of their Clan and  with Red Hawk and Sturgeon of the Thunderbird Clan. Their complement is Elk people.

June Solstice Gateway

June Solstice Sun on the Galactic Cross

by Cayelin K Castell

An ancient “School of Prophets” understood much about the cosmos and used natural time-cycles to mark out the course of history. For them the cosmos seemed somehow much closer and more relevant than it does today.
Among other things they believed that there were specific doorways or gates leading in and out of “heaven”. These portals were believed to be located at the points where the ecliptic (the pathway followed by the Sun in its annual progression along the zodiac) crosses over the Milky Way.
Significantly the Sun now sits at one of these gateways at the solstices. By a process of analogy: “As Above, So Below”, this indicates that it is now that these “stargates” are opening. Adrian Gilbert

As mentioned in the above quote Summer Solstice Sun now rises on the Galactic Cross near the Galactic Edge letting us know we are at the Turning of a Great Age. This is an event that occurs in the current configuration about every 26,000 years and lasts for at least 72 years – as that is how long it takes the Sun to move 1 degree through the backdrop of the stars.
Using the 72 year window this shift began in 1962 and ends in 2030. When considering an entire 26,000 year Great Year of time – one degree on either side of the exact center point of the Sun on the cross is also reasonable. That creates a 144 year window, 72 years on either side of the exact point. The exact center point was calculated by astronomer John Muess as occurring in 1998. That means if we calculate 72 years before and after – the window began in 1926 and lasts until 2070.
At the very least we know we are still near the exact center point when the ‘stargate’ or ‘portal’ is wide open during the solstices. The Sun acts as a doorway to the incoming energies, illuminating and opening the stargate to other realms and dimensions as it rises, sets and tracks across the sky during the solstice time. As pictured to the left – you can see where the June solstice Sun is sitting on the Galactic Cross between the constellation of the Twins and the Bull. Solstice translate as stand still of the Sun and is exact for at least three days and is nearly exact for almost three weeks.
The Sun is a star light so gives off star light, and carries its own starry codes that help to activate the area of the sky it is passing through. The Sun is necessary for life in many ways and also has the ability to help us calibrate our own frequency to the higher frequencies available at this time – especially during a Solstice or stand still time as it concentrates the star energy from that part of the sky for several days. This can help with healing physical, mental, emotional and spiritual issues when applied with awareness and a loving intent.
Working with ceremony and intent magnifies the Solstice energy as we inform the mysteries as much as they inform us.
More can be found on the June 2014 Celestial Timings with audio overview (to posted by May 31) HERE

WESAK FULL MOON DRUMMING CIRCLE MAY 14, 2014

WESAK FESTIVAL OF LIGHT MEDITATION AND FULL MOON DRUMMING CIRCLE 

MAY 11TH, 6:30PM - 7:30PM On the Medicine Wheel at The Witches Brew

JOIN US AS WE COLLECTIVELY RECEIVE THE ENERGIES DOWNLOADED BY THE BUDDHA AND THE CHRIST TO THE ASCENDED MASTERS AT SHAMBALA

JOINING HEARTS AND FAITHS  WE BECOME A
LIVING CHALICE FOR THE POWERFUL ENERGIES  GIVEN TO EARTH
AT THIS TIME

 MEDITATION LIGHT INFUSION OF THE DIVINE

DRUMMING

FOR PEACE, UNITY AND HARMONY AS WE EMBRACE ONENESS ON MOTHER EARTH.

REV. CAROLINE WHITEFAWNSTAR FAC,
GRATITUDE OFFERING WELCOME
PLEASE BRING INSTRUMENTS

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FIFTH MOON CYCLE OF TRUTH:  FROGS RETURN MOON  APRIL 20-MAY20

 

People born under this moon cycle have Beaver as their animal totem.

Theirs is the second moon of the East Gate.

Blue Camas as the Plant totem and chrysocolla as their mineral.  This stone is similar to turquoise in color; and is known to assist its wearer

To balance the elements of earth and sky within herself. It is considered a stone of good medicine that will help to bring good health and good in general to it’s owner.

People born under this moon have Earth as their element and are of the Turtle Clan.

Beaver people appear lucky, but usually their good luck comes from determination and hard work. They can enjoy good health and strong bodies especially  if they wear the Chrysocolla Stone that is sky blue in color.

The Beaver people are hard workers, they are loyal friends and tend to treat friendships and relationships in a way that seems pure and clean as though it comes from a purer time.

The Blue Camas flower is a member of the lily family and was a staple food for Native people, they cooked the bulbs which were sweet.

                                                                                          

The color for beaver people is blue which signifies tranquility

 And contentment stemming from a feeling of peace and happines.  They have the ability to sustain those whom they are associated  because their roots grow deep into the earth forming a solid foundation.

 

IROQUOIS THANKSGIVING ADDRESS SUSTAINS THE EARTH

LET US REMEMBER TO GIVE THANKS EVERYDAY...AND SO SUSTAIN THE EARTH...WHITEFAWN STARTHANKSGIVING GREETING...

"It is believed that as long as one person continues to give the Thanksgiving Address, the Earth will be sustained and all life will be sustained..but when we forget to be grateful for all the gifts we so freely receive, then the Earth will end as we know it"...Iroquois

THE IROQUOIS THANKSGIVING ADDRESS

"Ohenton Kariwahtekwen"

 

GREETINGS TO THE NATURAL WORLD

By Chief Jake Swamp

THE PEOPLE
 

Today we have gathered and we see that the cycles of life continue. We have been given the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. So now, we bring our minds together as one as we give greetings and thanks to each other as people.  We give thanks for our family,

 

friends, and fellow human beings...

Now our minds are one.

THE EARTH MOTHER

We are all thankful to our Mother, the Earth, for she gives us all that we need for life. She supports our feet as we walk about upon her. It gives us joy that she continues to care for us as she has from the beginning of time. To our mother, we send greetings and thanks.

Now our minds are one.

THE WATERS

We give thanks to all the waters of the world for quenching our thirst and providing us with strength. Water is life. We know its power in many forms-waterfalls and rain, mists and streams, rivers and oceans. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to the spirit of Water.

Now our minds are one.

THE FISH

We turn our minds to the all the Fish life in the water. They were instructed to cleanse and purify the water. They also give themselves to us as food. We are grateful that we can still find pure water. So, we turn now to the Fish and send our greetings and thanks.

Now our minds are one.

THE PLANTS

Now we turn toward the vast fields of Plant life. As far as the eye can see, the Plants grow, working many wonders. They sustain many life forms. With our minds gathered together, we give thanks and look forward to seeing Plant life for many generations to come.

Now our minds are one.

 

THE FOOD PLANTS

With one mind, we turn to honor and thank all the Food Plants we harvest from the garden. Since the beginning of time, the grains, vegetables, beans and berries have helped the people survive. Many other living things draw strength from them too. We gather all the Plant Foods together as one and send them a greeting of thanks.

Now our minds are one.

 

THE MEDICINE HERBS

Now we turn to all the Medicine herbs of the world. From the beginning they were instructed to take away sickness. They are always waiting and ready to heal us. We are happy there are still among us those special few who remember how to use these plants for healing. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to the Medicines and to the keepers of the Medicines.

Now our minds are one.

 

THE ANIMALS

We gather our minds together to send greetings and thanks to all the Animal life in the world. They have many things to teach us as people. We are honored by them when they give up their lives so we may use their bodies as food for our people. We see them near our homes and in the deep forests. We are glad they are still here and we hope that it will always be so.

Now our minds are one

 

THE TREES

We now turn our thoughts to the Trees. The Earth has many families of Trees who have their own instructions and uses. Some provide us with shelter and shade, others with fruit, beauty and other useful things. Many people of the world use a Tree as a symbol of peace and strength. With one mind, we greet and thank the Tree life.

Now our minds are one.

THE BIRDS

We put our minds together as one and thank all the Birds who move and fly about over our heads. The Creator gave them beautiful songs. Each day they remind us to enjoy and appreciate life. The Eagle was chosen to be their leader. To all the Birds-from the smallest to the largest-we send our joyful greetings and thanks.

Now our minds are one.

THE FOUR WINDS

We are all thankful to the powers we know as the Four Winds. We hear their voices in the moving air as they refresh us and purify the air we breathe. They help us to bring the change of seasons. From the four directions they come, bringing us messages and giving us strength. With one mind, we send our greetings and thanks to the Four Winds.

Now our minds are one.

 

THE THUNDERERS

Now we turn to the west where our grandfathers, the Thunder Beings, live. With lightning and thundering voices, they bring with them the water that renews life. We are thankful that they keep those evil things made by Okwiseres underground. We bring our minds together as one to send greetings and thanks to our Grandfathers, the Thunderers.

Now our minds are one.

THE SUN

We now send greetings and thanks to our eldest Brother, the Sun. Each day without fail he travels the sky from east to west, bringing the light of a new day. He is the source of all the fires of life. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to our Brother, the Sun.

Now our minds are one.

 

GRANDMOTHER MOON

We put our minds together to give thanks to our oldest Grandmother, the Moon, who lights the night-time sky. She is the leader of woman all over the world, and she governs the movement of the ocean tides. By her changing face we measure time, and it is the Moon who watches over the arrival of children here on Earth. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to our Grandmother, the Moon.

Now our minds are one.

 

 

THE STARS

We give thanks to the Stars who are spread across the sky like jewelry. We see them in the night, helping the Moon to light the darkness and bringing dew to the gardens and growing things. When we travel at night, they guide us home. With our minds gathered together as one, we send greetings and thanks to the Stars.

Now our minds are one.

THE ENLIGHTENED TEACHERS

We gather our minds to greet and thank the  Teachers who have come to help throughout the ages. When we forget how to live in harmony, they remind us of the way we were instructed to live as people. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to these caring teachers.

Now our minds are one.

 

THE CREATOR

Now we turn our thoughts to the creator, or Great Spirit, and send greetings and thanks for all the gifts of Creation. Everything we need to live a good life is here on this Mother Earth. For all the love that is still around us, we gather our minds together as one and send our choicest words of greetings and thanks to the Creator.

Now our minds are one.

CLOSING WORDS..........

We have now arrived at the place where we end our words. Of all the things we have named, it was not our intention to leave anything out. If something was forgotten, we leave it to each individual to send such greetings and thanks in their own way. Now our minds are one. WE GIVE THANKS FOR YOU...

 

~Chief Jake Swamp

 

Jake Tekaronianeken Swamp Oct. 18, 1941 - Oct. 15, 2010

Former Wolf Clan sub-chief of the Kanienkehaka (People of the Flint), Mohawk Nation. For more than thirty years Jake Swamp had been a Mohawk sub-Chief and representative of the Haudenosaunee, Iroquois Confederacy which is comprised of the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora Nations. He has presented the wide range of his experience in indigenous, environmental and social issues in talks and programs both locally and internationally.

 

Jake Swamp founded the Tree of Peace Society in an effort to address current topics in environmental and cultural education. The Tree of Peace Society builds cross-cultural understanding between Native and non-Native people, promotes environmental and social ethics, and works tirelessly to preserve the culture and languages of the Haudenosaunee.

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