The Call of Autumn
The Bear symbolizes the inner gaze that allows us introspection and the ability to be still before making choices. Every year, when the first leaves fall, I feel the call of the medicine of the bear. This call does not come from the outside but from a deep inner desire to slow down, to pause, and to dive into a new season of introspection. Autumn, the season of the West on the medicine wheel see article here, invites us to look within ourselves, to take stock of what we have accomplished, what has changed, and to contemplate the paths we wish to take.
Path of Introspection
During my 13 years of learning, through diets, ceremonies, and stays in tribes, introspection has not only been a spiritual practice but has also become a way of life. In those moments of silence and retreat, I learned to dive deep within myself, exploring the sometimes forgotten, sometimes frightening corners of my soul. These inner dives were not always comfortable. I encountered my shadow parts—those aspects of myself that I was afraid to confront—but the medicine of the bear taught me to tame them. Each experience, each spiritual encounter offered me the opportunity to know myself a little better, but also to understand that this journey is infinite.
I often felt like a pilgrim on an endless path, where each step forward reveals a new, unexplored horizon. There were days when clarity felt palpable, when I sensed that I finally understood the depth of my being. And then there were moments of doubt when I felt so far from the total understanding I sought. But over time, I realized that this quest has never been a destination in itself. True wisdom lies in continuing to move forward, to continue asking questions, even when answers slip away.
Even today, after all these years of practice and introspection, I realize that I never fully know myself. Each day, I discover a new facet of myself, an unexplored part ready to be revealed. And that is the beauty of this inner journey: it is endless. The bear, through its silent wisdom, taught me that the goal is not to understand everything but to remain open to transformation and the constant evolution of my being.
The Medicine of the West: Preparing for Transformation
The West, on the medicine wheel, is a key direction when one knows their purpose in life but still feels the need for strength and wisdom to fulfill it. It is a moment of pause, reflection, and preparation for transformation. The bear, guardian of the West, teaches us that this period of introspection is essential for integrating life lessons, maturing, and ultimately taking action in alignment with our purpose.
Connecting to the West means accepting that transformation is a process that takes time. It involves recognizing that, even with a clear vision of our path, we sometimes need the support of others, spirits, or the wisdom of the elders to move forward. The West reminds us that transformation does not happen alone but in community and with the resources offered by nature and spiritual guides.
Thus, the West does not push us toward immediate action but rather invites us to an inner pause. It encourages us to listen to our inner wisdom, to accept our need for help, and to understand that this period of reflection will make our future actions more powerful and aligned with our true essence.
The Questions of the Bear
This is where the wisdom of the medicine of the bear comes into play. The bear teaches us to be still before choosing, to look within before acting. Each autumn, it poses four essential questions to guide our introspection:
1. Who are you?
2. What do you love?
3. How do you live knowing that you will die?
4. What gifts do you leave to the children?
These questions, though simple in appearance, are powerful mirrors of where we stand in our journey. They push us to constantly reevaluate our lives, our desires, and our actions. I discover these questions in the Hopi teaching and realize the depth they contain, reminding me that despite the time spent exploring within, there are always new horizons to contemplate.
The Medicine of the Bear in Preparation for the Wuwuchim Ceremony
The medicine of the bear does not ask us to find definitive answers. It invites us to reflection, curiosity, and honesty. By answering its questions, we prepare our hearts and minds for the Wuwuchim ceremony see article here, in December, the most important ceremony of the Hopi calendar. If you wish to learn more about the Wuwuchim ceremony, you can read a previous article or consult the [calendar of Hopi ceremonies](https://www.voiehopis.com/post/cycle-cérémoniel-hopi). It is a time for rebirth, to reconnect with our essence and the teachings of our ancestors.
Invitation to Introspection
As we enter this time of year, take a moment to sit with the bear and dive into introspection. Create a calm space where you can feel comfortable. Close your eyes and breathe deeply.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Who am I?
What do I love?
How do I live knowing that I will die?
What gifts do I leave to the children?
Take the time to let these questions resonate within you. Write down your reflections if it helps clarify your thoughts.
This introspective work, although it may seem difficult, is a gift in itself. It allows us to know ourselves better, to better understand our shadows, and to move forward with more clarity and peace. Let the medicine of the bear guide you in this exploration, and prepare for a new season of inner growth.
Invitation to Exploration
If you are inspired by these reflections and wish to explore the spiritual path of the Hopis further, I invite you to delve deeper into this wisdom. Visit our teachings page or book a drum healing session. You can also become a member of our community, where we share these values and spiritual practices with respect and kindness.
Don’t forget to check out the workshops I offer on the Yoga With You
Together, let’s honor ancient wisdom and walk toward a life enriched by sharing and gratitude. May this autumn season be an invitation to transformation and self-discovery.
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