symbols of nature

The belief system of the Native Americans assigned an animal spirit keeper for each of the four directions.

The buffalo was the totem of the North. It taught endurance and contemplating knowledge.

The spirit of the East is represented by the eagle who teaches new beginnings and creativity.






The coyote, spirit keeper of the South known as the Trickster, gives the gift of trust.





The animal spirit keeper of the West is the grizzly bear, a problem solver and teacher of family and community values.

Drumming was often used to communicate with the spirit keepers and to get in touch with one's own heartbeat, which was sacred.

The first Thanksgiving held in 1621 between the Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag Native Americans was as it is today: an expression of gratitude, giving thanks.

Wild turkey was on the menu from the Pilgrims.

The Native Americans brought five deer for the venison meat.

Indian corn and gourds were crops raised and harvested by the Native Americans.

Gratitude to my blogger friends!

Sources:

Dancing with the Wheel by Sun Bear, Wabun Wind, and Crysalis Mulligan.

Sacred Drumming by Steven Ash.

The First Thanksgiving, article by Kathleen Curtin, Historian at Plymouth Plantation.