Bears are not companions of men, but children of God, and His charity is broad enough for both... Bears are made of the same dust as we, and breathe the same winds and drink of the same waters. A bear's days are warmed by the same sun, his dwellings are overdomed by the same blue sky, and his life turns and ebbs with heart-pulsings like ours and was poured from the same fountain...  -- John Muir 

Bears?

What do bears have to do with romance writing? 

Some time ago, a very good friend of mine, who is part Native American, told me about Shamanism.   I was interested, but a little wary. After all, I am not professionally religious, although I glory in God's creations.  

Although the trip is over, this notice caught my eye while I was researching the 'Net because the destination is very near where I used to live in the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile and I know the Andean village mentioned. Read the Pachamama News Flash for preparations and description of a spiritual retreat called a shamanistic intensive. 

Anyway, back to my friend. We went on to talk of animals, and the role they play in Native American culture. Intrigued, I listened more intently. In the words of Joe Douthhitt, from An Introduction to Fetishes: 

Perhaps because I was in a very stressful, troubled time of my life, perhaps because I was searching within myself for answers, perhaps because I wanted some force, some power, to give me direction, my skepticism began to fade. And when my friend showed me how to find my own personal animal guide -- and I did -- it was hard not to believe. 

My guide is a bear. Not a cute, cuddly teddy bear, but the real thing. The massive animal which means strength. I like that. Not necessarily physical strength, but strength of mind, of will, of purpose. My bear told me her name, which is a private thing and one I will not share with you, but we communicate without words. Some will scoff, saying it's merely my subconscious and to that I say: Yes, you're absolutely right. 

It is the intuitive, basic part of me--untainted by rationalizing, "should be, should do" thoughts--coming through. It is the instinctive reactions and responses, the part of me that sizes up a situation and comes up with the right answers. 

"Fetish's are believed to hold special powers. The Eagle is a Spirit, a connection to the Divine. The Deer gives the power of gentleness as the Bear gives the power of strength, introspection, and the power of the soul.

The Snake symbolizes transmutation, life-death and rebirth. The symbol of Mother Earth is the Turtle.  The Coyote is known for being a trickster, and the Wolf symbolizes a teacher, a pathfinder on the never ending journey for survival. Leadership and resourcefulness belong to the Mountain Lion, the Beaver gives a strong sense of family and home. Healing powers belong to both the Horse and the Raven and the Buffalo gives one the power to overcome one's weakness."

A fetish is a stylized design. In the case of an animal, it is more often the shape, or the outline, rather than the natural detail, as in these photographs.  Bear fetishes come in many sizes, materials and shapes. The one on the right is a beautiful representation of the simple elegance of silhouette and design. They also come in all price ranges, and while the one on the right is more than I can afford at $12,000, I do own a number of more moderately priced bears. 

I began collecting bear fetishes on my travels. A pink rhodonite bear from British Columbia, a copper one from Montana, onyx and turquoise from Arizona, a gorgeous bear fetish necklace and matching earrings from Nevada, a stunning watch, silver bear paws with turquoise, lapis lazuli and carnelian from New Mexico. I found crystal, gemstones and people began giving me bears for my collection. Pride of place goes to the soapstone carving which stands about eight inches high. 

I wear something with a bear on it every day. I find myself more centered, more positive and calm, when I have my bear with me. 

I've heard it said that the only difference between a carving and a fetish is the belief of the owner. That may be true, but my bear is important to me. I feel protected, more secure and together since my bear has made itself known. 

Would you like to learn more, or see some beautiful bear (and other animal) fetishes? Check into any or all of these sites: 

InfoBear's Lair
Bear Photos
SWEET MEDICINE BEAR Studio
MOKSGM'OL - THE SPIRIT BEAR
  American Bear Association
  Bear Etiquette
  Bears
  The Bear Den

Kennan Ward is a respected photographer and naturalist. His bear photos are touching magnificent, and award-winning. The photo of the bear in water (above) is his. If you have a chance, do read his book, Grizzlies in the Wild, published by NorthWord Press, Inc. Absolutely outstanding!