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 what is being
shown. 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.

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 brings to you.

The following links will take you to charts and information to bring a little more understanding. 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.
ShyOwl's Nest
Animal Totems
Animal Guides