Wolf is the ultimate teacher through experience. She journeys to all four directions - north east south and west - gaining knowledge and wisdom, and brings back the lessons she has learnt to pass on to others in the pack. She starts her journey into the unknown by heading south, the direction of the personality. Here she learns the lessons of trial and error, trusting herself and her intuition, and confronting her fears. Her sense of self-reliance is increased as she puts to test the lessons she has learned here.Wolf spirit then turns to the west, the direction of the journey within or 'spirit-center'. Here she contemplates, in silence, all that has gone before. Her actions have born fruit as she integrates the personality with the spirit, and she gazes at her soul, recognizing that life is magical. Having absorbed these lessons, she is granted a spiritual rebirth, and rises from the ashes to continue her journey. In the north, she discovers a courage gained through resolve and determination. She reawakens to the physical state of her being and so integrates personality with spirit and with the physical. She recognizes that one is also a physical being, as well as spiritual and it is a time of thanksgiving and celebration for the lessons she has learned. Finally, she turns her head towards the east, home, and returns to the pack with her newfound knowledge, wisdom and experience. Her destiny is to share what she has learned so the journey can be made by everyone.
The wolf is loyal and independent, but also able to work and co-operate well with other members of the pack, and so she teaches the benefits of finding a balance between 'the pack' or the need to be social and involved with others, and being a 'lone wolf', or spending valuable time alone. Wolf is connected to the moon and lunar energies, teaching us to respect our emotions and unconscious urges. Respect for the wildness of our animal natures, and willingness to face the dark within ourselves is an imperative for people with wolf as a totem. Because the Moon rules psychic perception, those with wolf as their totem should work on learning to trust their intuition and psychic urges, to listen for the still small voice within.
The wolf is a powerful symbol also of change and adaptation. Much is thrown in her way, but wolf manages to adapt, to change to the circumstances. One only has to look at the variable and often harsh environment that most wolves live in to see the truth in this statement. As well as outlined above, the wolf also teaches: Facing the end of one's cycle with dignity and courage. Death and rebirth. Spirit teaching. Guidance in dreams and meditations. Instinct linked with intelligence. Social and familial values. Outwitting enemies. Ability to pass unseen. Steadfastness. Skill in protection of self and family. Guardianship. Loyalty. Shapeshifting.
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