Friday, February 3, 2012

Symbols, Totems and Allegories


For some reason I've been drawn to symbols lately. It is interesting to ponder our symbols and what they mean. Symbols have been used throughout time.

While I don't believe symbols bring us power I do believe they can point us towards truths we should remember. Allegories have often been used in scripture to help us understand a difficult concept e.g. we are lost sheep. This helps our hearts understand what our minds may not comprehend.

These symbols have meaning to me. First and foremost is an often used symbol for Christ. I am a believer and while I'm human and make many mistakes but I strive to live as He would have me do.

The key represents truth to me. Truth is very important in my life. I feel without truth we cannot overcome or solve problems. Truth also tells us who we really are. In this world we do not see our true selves. The key reminds me that there is more to me than what is seen.

The bear symbolizes strength and that I have protection. Protection comes in different forms at different times. Sometimes it's physical protection and other times it's spiritual. But I have often felt it in my life. I would not have survived spiritually and spiritually because of the protection of God, nature, family and friends.

The feather is my symbol for birds. Birds have taught me so much. Joy of life, community, building nests takes work, soaring above the world, stalwart witnesses. My Native American name is Gentle Hawk. When I first received it I thought it was an oxymoron and that it didn't fit me. I never thought of myself as gentle. Yet in the years since I have developed gentleness. It has developed through hardship and the undconditional love and service of others.

I have been greatly blessed in my life and I'm grateful for the symbols that remind me of these things.




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