11 - Moose: Self Esteem
Moose is found in the North of the medicine wheel. North represents the place of
wisdom. Self-esteem is the medicine of Moose because it represents the power of
recognizing that wisdom has been used in a situation and that recognition or a pat on the
back is deserved.
Moose is the largest member of the deer family, and has great strength. The call
of the male Moose is an awesome thing to hear. His pride in his maleness and his desire
to share his seed with a Moose cow are displays of his sense of self-esteem. The bellow
of a male Moose can be viewed as a positive force, since it represents his willingness to
"tell the world" about this feelings.
This "tell the world" trait contains a joyfulness which only comes with a sense of
accomplishment. There is no greater joy than a job well done. This trait is therefore not
a seeking of approval, but rather an enjoyment of sharing because of the spontaneous
explosion of joy that comes from the deepest part of one's being.
The wisdom woven throughout this scenario is that creation constantly brings
forth new ideas and further creation. Moose is telling us that joy should be shouted with
pride. The wisdom in doing this shouting is that the joy is "catching." In a sense, the
bellowing is a way for all of us to lighten up and give ourselves or each other a "well
done!"
Moose medicine people have the ability to know when to use the gentleness of
Deer and when to activate the stampede of buffalo. They understand the balance between giving order to get things done and having a willingness to do things themselves. The wisdom of Moose medicine is akin to the Grandfather Warrior who has long since put away his war paint and is now advising the young bucks to cool their blood.
Moose medicine is often found in elders who have walked the Good Red Road
and have seen many things in their Earth Walk. Their joy lies in being the teachers of the
children, and in being the first ones to give encouragement. This is not to say that Moose
medicine people do not use their wisdom to warn as well as to give praise, because they
do. Moose medicine people know what to say, when to say it, and to whom.
The elders are honored in tribal law for their gifts of wisdom, for their teaching
abilities, and for the calmness they impart in Council. If you are wise beyond your years
and have the gift of Moose medicine, use this gift to encourage others to learn and grow.
There are many facets to the wisdom of Moose medicine.
If you have chosen the Moose card, you have reason to feel good about something
you have accomplished on your journey. This may be a habit you have broken, a
completion of some sort, an insight on a goal, or a new sense of self that you have fought hard to earn. It is a time of feeling harmonious pride, and of recognizing those who aided you in the process.
One good exercise in Moose medicine is to write down things that you can love about
yourself and your progress in life. Then apply these same things to friends, family,
coworkers, and life. Don't forget to share the findings with others. They need the
encouragement as much as you do.
Contrary
If Moose is upside-down when you draw it, you are being reminded that ego can
ruin your sense of accomplishment. Remember that others have the same potential you
have, and do not become careless in your appreciation of their gifts. Reversed Moose
implies that in tooting your own horn you have failed to be interested in others, and have
there forgotten that everyone teaches everyone else in some way. Contrary Moose
medicine may be asked you to grow quietly for awhile, to calm your spirit and allow the
strength and wisdom of silence to enter your heart. This is the core of Moose medicine:
knowing the wisdom of silence, so that when it is proper to speak you can take pride in
your words.
Overview
See your potential. Take pride in yourself. Honor your right to be.
Source: Sams, Jamie and Carson, David.
Medicine Cards
(Santa Fe: Bear and Company, 1988).