Crows Calling
Kiki Curry

Graphic By: Lisa Conrad

Totems

Totems

You don't choose your totem, either. It's not like going to a supermarket and checking out the different paths available. "Hum.. this one teaches the importance of generosity, and focusses on selflessness... I'm not sure I'd be good at that. This one emphasizes courage and strength... not bad. Ah - here's one which says we should all have a good time. Yeah - I like that. I'll follow this totem!" No... your Totem chooses You.

In traditional practice, a young adult would go on a spirit quest - a journey to find one's self, and be found by a totem. Often elaborate preparations were undertaken: sweat lodges, ritual cleansing, peyote ceremonies, fasting, and long journeys or extended isolation were all commonly used. It was expected that the quester would have a dream or vision in which they would be visited by their totem, and find direction in life. The totem which came may have reflected ideals which were important to the quester (such as a strong young brave being called by Bear, or a wise woman being visited by Owl) but it was also possible for a totem to choose unlikely followers (a timid boy might be met by Wolf, or Rabbit might call a noisy prankster). The quester did not have any choice in the matter - the totem knew who to call, and those who were called were expected to follow.

As a totem, Crow is recognized as a messenger between the worlds. His concern is less with tricks, and more with knowledge. He is not held by boundaries of flesh and time. He may cross into the spirit world with ease, and can bring messages to or from the deceased. Crow is not to be taken lightly when he warns of danger, or foretells an event.

Crow is also a master of illusion. He can warp natural laws, and make things seem to be other than they are - sometimes changing one thing into another - in order to reveal or obscure some essential truth.

Followers of Crow often have great insight about life's events. Their eyes may be open to things others do not see, if they learn to look beyond their mortal limitations. They are in tune with death and dying, and should not be afraid of the unknown, for Crow knows it.