Dream Walking

Introduction:

When winter is at its peak bears are usually asleep in a cave or other secure place that Earth Mother provides. During their long period of sleep bears dream of hunting, socializing, and of needed lessons. By routinely going inside self, a bear is able to connect with its growth regarding personal health, relationships with Great Spirit, and its social standing with the Bear Clan. Slumbering for so long also brings about opportunities to work through negative habits or other things that must be left behind.

In spring, summer and fall bears dream much like other beings in Great Forest. They dream at night, during naps after fishing or foraging for berries, or even with the occasional daydream when they are meditating on something while awake. Dreams of this nature are as important to bears as are those during winter, although these dreams are usually only influenced by issues immediately at hand.

Dreams and visions bears live through provide a means of physical, spiritual, and mental cleansing. Issues bears dream about are often like a subliminal message echoing for recognition from where they are tucked away between reality and fantasy. They yearn to be examined for any truth, yet are elusive and sometimes slip through the mind's paths before being noticed. Despite their shortness or elusiveness the dreams are always recognized eventually, since they reflect a need to deal with an issue of importance.

Sometimes issues in dreams are rational and easy to work through. At other times issues are abstract and may be difficult to deal with at all. The more abstract a dream is the more potential there is for having to dream it several times. Eventually discernment can evolve and the messages of a dream become obvious.

Usually the subconscious mind and the conscious mind do not need to communicate well about resolving issues with dreams. The subconscious mind typically deals with dreams well enough by assimilating a dream's messages for immediate understandings or for understandings one will need later. For this reason dreams are not usually remembered by the conscious mind, but instead, the lessons derived are remembered when needed. If the subconscious mind does not deal with a dream well enough, help from the conscious mind may be utilized to complete the process of discerning a dream's messages. Dreams about complex issues, for instance, must sometimes be dealt with by the subconscious while one is asleep, and the conscious when one is awake.

Sometimes the subconscious mind helps the conscious mind to barely wake up while one is asleep and a dream is still occurring. In this way many more parts of one's mental resources are being used at the same time. Although this is rare in many creatures of Great Forest, it is quite common with mature bears and they call it dream walking.

Dreamtime:

Huge shimmering snowflakes were falling from Father Sky and blanketing Great Forest with a new fluffy layer of snow. Along Great River little activity was taking place, since most folks were asleep or staying warm in a nest, burrow, den or other home. Bear quietly sat on an icy rock ledge outside of his den admiring the elements of winter.

This environment did not seem unusual to Bear except that he was not cold or damp from the flakes of snow on his fur, or from the ice he sat on. He also did not feel cranky from being outside of his den during winter. All this began to make sense, however, once Bear became aware of a low rumbling noise in his den. Bear realized he was fast asleep inside his den, and that in his dream he could hear himself snoring.

At this Bear grinned and curiosity caused his thoughts to wander along many paths while reflecting about his dreamtime. In the past Bear had awakened from visions and dreams that seemed real to him until consciousness had taken over. Before today, however, he had never experienced a time when his subconscious mind was joined by his conscious mind only enough for him to continue dreaming.

Bear thought about going into his den to see himself sleeping, but decided this may make him wake up. He thought about going for a walk to see what notable events may be taking place in Great Forest today, but realized anything he saw or heard might be his own manifestations and not real. Bear decided the best thing to do was to experience his dream and look for any lessons that may come to him.

He was very hungry from his long winter hibernation, so Bear thought about going down to Great River and fishing. It occurred to him that fishing was an effort to no avail, since any fish he caught would not be real nor satisfy his hunger. However, it also came to Bear that fishing would at least be good sport and maybe good practice.

As Bear moved to take his first step toward Great River he found himself standing on the ice that covered a sandbar he had mentally prepared to fish from. Bear stood there for a few moments thinking about what had happened. Centering his thoughts on fishing from this sandbar seemed to cause him to be here all at once.

To test his theory Bear thought about a nice long and lean rainbow trout jumping from Great River's water and landing in front of him onto the ice. A large trout jumped onto the ice right away, and Bear grinned at the thought of having controlled his dream. Bear knew the fish was not real, but the trout looked real, smelled real, and after thanking Great Spirit for the bounty, Bear found that it even tasted real.

Gray-Eye-Grandfather-bear startled Bear by approaching from behind and asking abruptly why he was eating a dream. Bear lost his footing on the icy sandbar as he spun around to face his grandfather, and fell with a loud thump. Bear noted a mischievous look in his grandfather's face and understood the elder knew his surprise would take Bear completely off guard.

Bear greeted his grandfather with kind words and thanks for his gracious attention. Then he answered indicating he was new to waking up during a dream, and simply testing different aspects of this state of mind. He asked if Gray-Eye-Grandfather-bear would guide him through the limits of being awake during dreams.

Sitting down, Gray-Eye-Grandfather-bear stared into Bear's eyes and then looked away from his grandson. He explained to Bear there are no limits in dreamtime except those invoked by one's own self and one's thoughts. He also made Bear aware that while dreaming one's spirituality can have an affect on the material world. Then Grandfather- bear made a metaphor by comparing conscious dreaming to that of communicating to and from the spirit world, and grinned when Bear caught on. He also explained that one can use will power to enter and share someone else's dream, one can see things that speak from the material world, one can move about without limits of time or space, and that one must expect unusual experiences during dreams.

His grandfather warned Bear that one might manufacture false understandings if he loses connection with Great Spirit, or if he simply wishes for it to happen. He explained that the large rainbow trout Bear had started eating was not a sign from Great Spirit, but simply something Bear had made up. His grandfather then asked Bear to imagine the rainbow trout as having already been eaten, and then to look back down at it. Gray-Eye-Grandfather-bear mentioned that the fish would still be mostly whole if it had been a sign from Great Spirit, since Bear's thoughts cannot truly affect Spirit's signs.

Bear thought about having eaten the fish, and then looked down at an empty set of bones. Bear told his grandfather he understood the lesson about Great Spirit's signs. He indicated he would try to mentally alter any apparent signs from Great Spirit, simply to make sure they were not his own manufacturing.

While talking to his grandfather about dreams, Bear remembered there was a message in Summer Thunder Wolf's words that he did not understand. He told his grandfather about how the Wolf Clan had interacted with him earlier in the season, and how they had saved him from freezing. Then he asked if these wolves had really eaten his grandfather.

Gray-Eye-Grandfather-bear sighed deeply and then began to tell Bear about a mighty enemy of the living who stalks through Great Forest during winter. He told Bear this beast was the same one who had tried to take Bear's life before Mother-bear could beat it away. He explained that the beast does not only kill for food, due to a darkness that exists in it that keeps it disconnected from Great Spirit. Grandfather-bear also mentioned that Bear would soon meet the dark enemy, and that Bear should be careful not to try to fight it only on the material plain. Bear was instructed to enlist material and spiritual allies through Great Spirit for this battle.

Grandfather-bear then told Bear about an arrangement the transcended ancients and living elders of the Bear Clan had made with the Wolf Clan. The wolves were to help keep bears safe from the dark enemy during winter seasons. For this service, the Wolf Clan would be guided toward the nourishing bodies of transcended bears. Grinning, Gray-Eye-Grandfather-bear told Bear that the Wolf Clan had honored their contract with the Bear Clan and had eaten several of Bear's family members over the years.

Bear, knowing the strength of his grandfather's wisdom, acknowledged it and all the words his grandfather had spoken. Watching at the fading apparition of his grandfather, Bear thought about the love his grandfather holds for the Bear Clan, for other folks of Great Forest, and for Great Spirit.

On Flying:

On two more occasions during the winter season Bear awoke within his dreams and explored the environments of his subconscious. Although he didn't see his grandfather or other family members, he did explore the aspects of dreamtime and its potentials toward deriving discernment from Great Spirit.

In the first of these times when he went dream walking, Bear was intent on figuring out how to navigate in different ways. He walked on snow without leaving tracks, climbed trees without moving branches, and jumped high into the air above rocky ledges and trees. It wasn't like he had become lighter, but instead he could control his dreams to the point of having or not having an apparent influence on his surroundings. He could dream rationally or abstractly.

Eventually Bear was moving about in his mind's dreamscapes with great ease. He thought about being in a location, and was there. When he tested how fast he could be in one place and then the next several times in a row the dream ended from the resulting chaos. Bear now knew he would have to learn to pace his dreamtime activities.

In the second of these dreams Bear floated on the winds that blow through and over Great Forest. While he was floating, Bear found that Great Spirit began to guide his direction. Bear rode the wind over valleys and mountains he had been in while awake, and then through some he had not seen before. Going into new areas was uncomfortable for Bear, since he could easily be trespassing into other bear's territories.

After Bear crossed over an unfamiliar part of Great River the wind subsided and he was softly deposited at the edge of a meadow and near a huge maple tree. His attention was drawn to a marking on the tree that was somewhat familiar, but then not.

Four deep cuts into the maple's bark was a grizzly bear's trail or territorial marking. This set of claw marks was much larger than any he had ever seen. Bear placed his paw over the marks and found they were twice as wide as his claws. Fear gripped Bear from deep within regarding the danger of trespassing into someone else's territory. Although he was in dreamtime, Bear knew he was still a novice at dream walking and that another bear more experienced may easily take advantage. He carefully looked around to see if another bear might be present or approaching.

Bear thought about several things that he knew were generated by fear. Then he looked away from the marks in the maple tree, thought about how small the marks were, and looked back. The marking was now slightly larger than Bear's paw. After testing the sign he had been brought to again and finding it had not changed, Bear knew he was now seeing it as he was supposed to and not as a manifestation of his fear or other hindrance brought on by Self.

Bear prayed to Great Spirit that he was thankful for remembering how to test for the truth in Spirit's signs. He knew that his grandfather's newest lessons were now ingrained and would serve him well in future dreams. It was obvious to Bear that he had been delivered to this location for a reason, so he also prayed to Great Spirit for further discernment and strength to endure those things associated with the sign.

A soft voice spoke to Bear and asked if fear had been detected in his having found the territorial marking on the maple tree. As if appearing from nowhere, Bear now noticed an elderly copperhead rattlesnake was coiled up at the base of the maple tree. Lifting her voice somewhat, she introduced herself as Sienna-rattlesnake, mother to hundreds. She then told Bear that he should know whom he fears before developing a fear for them.

Bear, knowing to be polite, formally announced his name as Brown-Stripe-Father-bear of the Bear Clan. After pausing to reflect on Sienna's words, Bear thanked her for sharing her wisdom. He then asked Sienna if she knew the bear that had made the marks in the tree bark.

Somehow Bear had amused the old snake, so it took her a while to quit chuckling and to finally tell him she did not yet know the bear. Sienna told Bear that he must control his natural instinct to fear the unknown. In an insistent tone she advised him to center on an investigation of fact and reason instead of developing fear for fear's sake.

Bear knew that fear was one's worst enemy in so many things, but now he knew he had often developed fear needlessly. He knew fear was only good for one's defense in cases, but now it was obvious that one must first know if a defense was needed. He gave Sienna a knowing sort of grin and thanked her again for her lesson about fear.

Sienna told Bear of a time long ago when the spiritual lessons of the Bear Clan and the spiritual lessons of another clan were revered as the key to allowing faith, insight and consciousness of Great Spirit's will to become second nature to one's way of living. She told him that the two clans had always walked on Earth Mother along the Red Path where they were spiritually connected to Great Spirit and along the Blue Path where they were in union with Great Spirit after transcending. Now, however, a darkness in one that belongs to the other clan had separated the clans along the Red Path. Sienna then told Bear that the Bear Clan's lessons of spiritual wisdom and the Lion Clan's lessons of spiritual strength must one day be taught together again.

Bear indicated to the elder that he hoped one day he might learn mountain lion's lessons of spiritual strength. Then he asked her if she knew of anyone who had been taught these lessons together. Sienna smiled and told him she knew several folks that had. She told Bear one of the best students she knew of was Owl.

Bear grinned at this, and then thought of another question for the elderly snake. He asked Sienna if she were speaking to him from the Blue Path of the spirit world, or from the Red Path by connecting to his dream. Sienna-rattlesnake simply said yes as she faded from sight.

Examining Dreams:

Waking up from this dream was like the slow transition of exiting a fog-laden river on an evening illuminated by Grandmother Moon's soft warm light. As Bear adjusted his eyes to his dimly lit den, he found it necessary to also clear his mind of the drowsiness left there by the dream and by his long sleep.

Laying on his bedding and looking around the den a bit, Bear thought about the more notable dreams he had experienced during his long sleep. He had learned how to dream walk, he had learned about associations of the Bear Clan with the wolf and lion clans, and he had learned of a distant area of Great Forest with a mysterious significance. The marks he had been lead to nagged at Bear's mind and he wondered how he could best prepare for dealing with them in time.

Pondering his dreams was a process that would continue through this day and most likely longer. By reflecting on his dreams in a meditative manner Bear would learn more lessons about Self and his world. Now, however, he had an overwhelming urge to get outside and see what kind of day it was in his neighborhood. His instincts were very keen about letting him know winter was at an end and his stomach voice was growling fiercely!

Bear remembered having manifested a large trout in his dream as he was first learning to dream walk. His lips drooled a bit at the thought of such a bountiful breakfast and Bear licked his lips to find the fish taste was still imaginary. Lifting himself up to all fours Bear stretched his massive body and then shook all over.

Slowly squeezing through the mouth of his den to go outside was an unexpected and enlightening event. It had never been this hard before. Bear realized his physical size had changed somewhat through the last summer and fall, but apparently he had grown quite a bit through the winter. Although he no longer carried the fat belly of fall that kept him nourished through winter, he was now much taller. As he painfully inched through the rock hole to get out of his den it dawned on him that he would have to search for a new place to live.

Leaving his den today was becoming quite an event for Bear, and he rested now and then to check the status of his exodus. He had not actually become stuck, but at times his progress was so slow that it seemed it could happen. Bear was now breathing very shallowly, since deep breaths only made the painful process worse. On these breaks it was easy for him to daydream about some of the issues concerning his dreams.

Eventually Bear was able to get his head out of the entrance far enough to look around at Great River and its surrounding environment in Great Forest. The chattering and songs of his neighbors coupled with their activities excited Bear about the metamorphosis of yet another beautiful spring season.

Jasper-Jay-bird flew over and landed in front of Bear, since he had noted something odd about Bear's position. He inquired of Bear why he was laying in his den's entrance instead of coming on out and basking in the warm rays of Grandfather Sun. Then it dawned on Jasper that Bear was nearly stuck and he broke into loud laughter.

Reacting to Jasper's inquiry and laughter, Bear struggled to make progress and exit before many other neighbors could catch on to his predicament. Jasper's laughter, however, alerted almost everyone nearby and folks started coming to see what was so funny. Otter and his family, Strong-Long-Tail-Father-beaver and most of his family, songbirds, grizzly bears, and even a rattlesnake from up-river gathered near Bear as he continued his struggle. Although they mostly laughed and teased Bear, some of them offered assistance or sympathy as well.

Overcoming his embarrassment, Bear eventually joined the others and painfully laughed at how silly he must look to them. When Bear got enough of himself free of the hole to scoot on outside, the few folks that remained watching the event (or simply standing around socializing) made noises of appreciation for his success. Bear grinned and took it all in stride knowing that it was done in love, respect, or both.

As his neighbors disbanded Bear walked down to Great River and jumped into a shallow area where salmon were schooling. Slapping at a large male salmon caused it to fly up and onto a nearby sandbar where it flipped about trying to bounce toward the river and freedom. With an enormous paw Bear trapped the salmon against a smooth rock, said prayers of thanks for Great Spirit's bounty, and then began to eat breakfast.

Bear spent most of the day fishing, eating, and napping. It was the first time he had eaten in many months, so satisfying his hunger was his primary concern. This did not, however, interfere with reflecting on his Self-growth. While eating or waiting for a large enough salmon to be spotted, Bear meditated on dreams and lessons he had been taught during winter and in times before.

Still a bit hungry from his winter hibernation, Bear kept fishing and eating on into the afternoon and even after the games had begun. He eventually realized he would have to stop, however, when he began to hear splashing water getting louder and louder as someone was approaching him from down river. Appearing to be centered on a salmon swimming by, Bear slowly ambled across the sandbar he was on toward a deep pool. When the splashing ceased Bear knew his adversary had just mounted the long sand bar he was on and would attack soon. Bear dove into the pool and curled around quickly to look up to the shore of the sandbar from under water.

White-Fang-Father-bear came to a slow trot when he saw his younger brother dive into Great River. He walked up to the edge of the sandbar Bear had been standing on to see where Bear might have gone, but only saw a silvery reflection of Grandfather Sky across the surface of the now calm pool. Just as White-Fang-Father-bear reached to disturb the pool's surface, his massive brother lurched from the pool's depths with a mighty roar and butted him hard in his stomach.

Rolling with Bear attached and biting him, White-Fang-Father-bear flung his brother off the other side of the sandbar and into the shallows. Both bears regained their footing and stood all the way up on there back paws. Growling and snorting as if mortal enemies, the two bears walked toward each other disregarding the sounds of other bears who were gathering to watch.

At a safe distance, Bear stopped walking toward his brother because of something he could not at first understand. He had always looked up to his older brother in respect and love, but also literally because of his brother's unusually large size. Now he was looking at his brother laterally. By this it dawned on Bear how much larger his body had grown.

Bear did something he and other bears seldom do by dropping to all fours and then lied down on his belly. This was not a sign of submittal like rolling over onto his back, but instead a sign that he felt the game should end for something more important.

White-Fang-Father-bear also stopped when Bear dropped down, looked around for any sign of trouble, and then dropped to stand on all four paws. He watched Bear intently in case this was all a trick or other strategy, but did not show any further aggressions.

Bear spoke first and mentioned that he was just realizing how much he had grown in size over the winter. His brother's tone of amazement lent toward credibility, so White-Fang-Father-bear walked over to talk. White-Fang-Father-bear observed that he was several winters older than Bear and that Bear might not be fully grown yet. Bear was lost for words at this, since he thought himself to be of average stature and not a relatively large bear. Bear and White-Fang-Father-bear talked about body size, dream walking, and messages from Great Spirit as they left Great River and walked toward the meadows where folks meet at night.

Growing Up:

White-Fang-Father-bear and Bear walked out of Great Forest into a meadow and after sharing blessings soon parted company. Looking around to see who he recognized Bear noticed his mate Mother-Red-bear and his daughter Wandering-Brook-bear in a corner of the meadow.

Mother-Red-bear called for Bear to join her. While Bear was walking over to his family he noticed his daughter had stopped short and was staring at him. As with his daughter, others in the crowd were also taking note of how much he had changed physically.

Mother-Red-bear nuzzled up against her mate after he stepped up and mentioned how much more of him there was to love. After appropriate sharing of affection with Red-Mother-bear, Bear looked down toward Wandering-Brook-bear and she reacted by tripping backwards. Embarrassed, his daughter scrambled to regain her footing and then looked back up to Bear.

Wandering-Meadow-bear told Bear he was the father of twin boys, more to divert his attention than to let him know. She gestured toward two cubs playing nearby and told him they were yet to be accepted, since Golden-Eyes-Grandmother-bear was still asleep.

Bear looked up to Mother-Red-bear and simply stared. His astonished look indicated to her that no one had mentioned the twins. Mother-Red-bear told bear they were still not named, and that if he had suggestions to speak up.

Bear looked down in pride at his new sons that were just now beginning to pay attention to him. He also looked over to his daughter and made a remark about how much she had grown over the winter. Wandering-Brook-bear rolled her eyes and then moved closer to nuzzle with Bear in a show of affection.

The cubs pretty much ignored their family. Size and growth didn't mean a lot to them yet. Most things they heard others talking about did not make sense. For this reason they mostly played tag and a wrestling game they had developed during late winter.

Mother-Red-bear told bear a problem had developed in their immediate family with the cave she and the children lived in. She had only planned on ever having one or two cubs live with her at a time, and now had three. Mother-Red-bear told him that although Wandering-Brook-bear would now be looking for a cave of her own, that she and the two babies would not fit in her small quarters for very long.

Bear's mother, Glistening-Sky-Mother-bear, came ambling over to see her new grandsons again and mentioned to bear that she had heard rumors that his cave was now up for grabs. Bear turned to Mother-Red-bear and told her about how hard it was for him to get out of his cave today. He announced that Mother-Red-bear and the cubs should take his cave for their own.

As Bear, his family, and others played with his and other's new cubs, he could not help but notice how much smaller the mature bears now looked. It dawned on him that after five years of living he had come to full maturity also. He had grown up!

Going Home:

At the end of the evening Mother-Red-bear announced that it was time for good bears to go get some rest. Other bears were dispersing into Great Forest toward their dens and other habitations. Bear, his mother, his father, and others of his family began walking down a path from the meadows together. Bear confronted his father about dream walking regarding the manipulation of one's location, bringing two people's dreams together, and understanding spiritual truths in the components of dreams.

Blue-Moon-Father-bear stopped in front of Bear to separate him from his mother and other family members, and asked Bear to be still and listen quietly. Bear could hear wolves howling from a long distance away in Great Forest. Looking about at the starry sky above, Bear found that Grandmother Moon had already bedded down for the night. Mentioning quietly to his father that the wolves were not singing to Grandmother Moon, Bear then pondered on why they were howling back and forth to each other. The howling changed in pitch and frequency from when Bear and his Father started listening, and then abruptly ended.

Speaking profoundly, Father-bear explained he knew from the way Bear played in the games at Great River today that Bear had begun thinking much deeper thoughts than in years before. He explained Bear was at the threshold of full adulthood. He indicated Bear would face many physical, mental, and spiritual lessons this year.

Other bears of the clan and other folks who had been in the meadows that evening occasionally walked by on the pathway as they made tracks toward home. Bear and his father greeted their friends and family as they passed, but did so in a way as to make obvious their need for time alone.

Looking deeply into Bear's eyes, Father-bear told him he would learn the spiritual significance of dream walking from Great Spirit through prayers and through actually walking while asleep. Owl, Father-bear continued, can help explain many of the spiritual aspects of walking outside of one's body even though Owl does not understand the manner in which Bears do it.

Father-bear went on to tell his son that the manner in which Bears dream walk and why they do so is something that develops in bears individually with a great deal of time and practice. For an example he added that Gray-Eye-Grandfather-bear felt he fully understood dream walking a few years before he transcended to the spirit world. Bear acknowledged that he knew understanding dream walking was a life long endeavor.

Looking out into Great Forest toward where the howling of wolves was heard earlier, Father-bear told his son he knew what the wolves were singing. He turned back to look at Bear and told him the first song was praise to Great Spirit for the bounty of Great Forest, and the second was a lament for a friend or family member who is transcending from this material world. Father-bear grinned and explained that wolves believe their lament helps make the transition of a soul a smoother journey, and also that it honors those they care for. He then took Bear off guard by telling him that they had sung tonight for Summer Thunder Wolf.

With a stern look on his face, Bear peered into his father's eyes and asked if his father understood the mystery of transcending. Blue-Moon-Father-bear grinned somewhat and told his son there was no mystery. He indicated that one's spirit simply goes home and joins directly with Great Spirit again.

Great Spirit's Riddle:

Bear and his father strolled through Great Forest until they reached a split in the path they were on, said good night, and went their separate ways. His father had given him several things to think about concerning transition and Bear knew these lessons would become clearer as he pondered and dreamed on them.

Bear decided to sleep between some boulders near Great River, since they would provide enough protection for one night. As he bedded down he looked up into the stars and watched for a while. Stars were a mysterious part of Great Spirit. Although they are commonly used as an example in teaching young folks about how expansive Great Spirit is, few folks of Great Forest understand what stars are about. The Bear Clan knows stars are a form of energy that Great Spirit spread across the universe so that Spirit's loving light would shine everywhere (according to an ancient and well connected owl).

Thoughts about Blue-Moon-Father-bear's lessons, family, dreams about Gray-Eyed-Grandfather-bear, and a need for finding a suitable cave to sleep in swirled around in Bear's head so much that he found going to sleep impossible. He distracted himself by counting stars and eventually Bear was snoring lightly and dreaming heavily.

When Bear woke up the next morning Fall Chipmunk was scolding her children about playing on him. They had been scampering around, over and about Bear like he was just another boulder (a big furry one at that) and this had alarmed their mother. Bear snorted to let the chipmunks know he was awake, and then slowly rose from where he had rested all night. Bear looked around to Fall and complimented her on having such energetic children. Fall acknowledged Bear's compliment and rushed off toward her tree den mentioning something about her young ones being too many to watch over.

Grandfather Sun painted Father Sky with a pink and orange glow on a distant horizon as he also rose from a night's sleep. Great Forest was chilly to Bear on this early spring morning, and he appreciated that Father sun would soon be warming his environment. Bear also appreciated that Grandfather Sun, like the stars at night, was a source of Great Spirit's loving light.

Stepping from between the boulders, Bear made his way to a path that he could take to Great River. As he ambled along Bear could only concentrate on eating breakfast, since it would be many days before he would be recovered from fasting during his long sleep. Perhaps this is how he so easily overlooked the fact that he was being followed and watched.

A lioness dropped from a tree onto the path in front of Bear and then crouched as if ready to attack him or defend her position. Though she was quite a distance away from Bear, he knew she could close this distance very quickly with one leap.

Bear understood that the lioness must have stalked him while assessing his attitude, movements, and which direction he intended to travel in. Usually lions will stalk their potential prey (much like she had done) until they are alone and easily trapped.

Thinking quickly as he positioned himself for a formidable defense, Bear assessed this awkward encounter for any signs of discernment for what might next occur. He knew the lioness was not intending to strike, since her tail was not waving. He also knew that instead of approaching him from above or behind, she had landed in front of him to allow him the benefit of his best defense. Bear drew a deep breath through his nose and exhaled through his mouth very slowly so that he could relax and not panic. The lioness also drew a deep breath and began to relax.

The lioness spoke to bear as she stared deeply into his eyes. She told Bear that the two of them needed each other to solve a riddle that had been placed in her by Great Spirit. She went on to say that the riddle involved one who would kill for killing's sake.

Bear was stunned at what the lioness had said to him. The concept of a mountain lion being connected to Great Spirit and having direct discernment, the concept of them needing each other's help, and that there was a riddle from Great Spirit that he must help solve were all confusing to him. Bear had always thought there was something almost evil about mountain lions, and had not considered their spirits to be connected to Great Spirit very well. However, Bear knew there must be things he was not understanding about mountain lions, since this one had apparently sought him out as part of a mission.

In his most polite voice, Bear announced that he was Brown-Stripe-Father-bear of the Grizzly Bear Clan, and that he was always willing to serve Great Spirit in any way. The lioness formally announced herself as Violet-Rose-lion of the Lion Clan, and cautiously strolled closer. Bear asked Violet if she had eaten well this morning. Violet returned somewhat of a perplexed look, and then told Bear she had not eaten for days.

Fishing for a Friend:

Gaining his confidence somewhat, Bear asked if he could treat Violet to a nice salmon breakfast. From this Violet realized there might be more kindness in grizzly bears than she had thought possible, so she returned a positive answer and thanked Bear.

The two carnivores strolled along a path to Great River in a relatively quite manner, but not without being noticed. Although they did not interrupt the two, many of Great Forest's inhabitants looked on in wonder as Violet and Bear passed by. Bear was leading, since he knew where to fish without attracting much attention.

Great Forest was alive with words being carried back and forth about how Bear and a strange lioness were seen talking and walking together. Even more words were transmitted once Bear was fishing for his and her breakfasts. This was a great deal to some folks, and at least a curiosity for others.

Now and then Bear tossed a fish onto Great River's shore for Violet, and ate other fish on the sand bar he fished from. When he and Violet had eaten quite a few salmon and some trout, Bear took a break from fishing and waded through the shallows of Great River and climbed up to where Violet was.

Violet and Bear lay down near the bank of Great River to bask in the warm rays of Father Sun and to begin talking deeply about the mission Violet had mentioned earlier. Violet told Bear about dreams and other events that carried messages from Great Spirit to her about the mission. She explained her interpretations about them, and what others of her clan had offered in the way of understandings and wisdom.

When she told him the details of her final dream her expression turned to pity. Violet described two bears being overwhelmed by a foe that had control of the battle because their defenses had been compromised. Bear read the sorrow in her eyes and inquired about the battle's outcome. Violet submitted that her dream had ended too soon for her to know what had finally happened. She added that there was some significance in that someone was calling to the bears by their names, Fire-Walker and Dancing-Rain.

Bear told Violet about his discussions with Grey-Eyed-Grandfather-bear and other family members who had indicated he would be in a position to address an awful trouble in Great Forest. He told her about it being foretold that he would need help and would need to enlist spiritual allies to deal with fighting a dark enemy on more than just the material plain. Bear also mentioned that the bear names Violet had mentioned were not familiar, and could easily be of distant kin or simply of metaphoric value.

As Bear and Violet discussed their dreams and discernments, it became obvious that they were on a mission to end the ravages of a lion that had lost his way. He was the lion Mother-bear had attacked in their den when he was young. He had attacked creatures of Great Forest intending only to kill. He was called Swaying-Pine-lion.

A voice from the pathway out of Great Forest took Violet and Bear a little off guard, since they had been concentrating on their mission. Golden-Eyes-Grandmother-bear calmly asked Bear if she could intrude and meet his new friend, and then ambled over to where Violet and Bear were. In a gesture of politeness with meeting the elder, Bear and Violet rose onto all fours as Grandmother-bear approached.

As she looked Violet over, Grandmother-bear's eyes spoke of a total acceptance of the lioness as if they were kin or best of friends. It made Violet a little uneasy to be confronted by such unconditional love from a bear, but her reaction was of respect for one who was so well connected spiritually. After the formality of announcing names, Grandmother-bear told Violet she was honored to meet the warrioress who would be involved in bringing the lion and bear clans back together.

Having made reference to something she knew Bear and Violet were not old enough to understand, Grandmother-bear explained that lions and bears had worked together from time to time in the past. She told them that before the dark lion had come into Great Forest that lions and bears respected each other's territories, ways of life, and spirituality, but that this relationship between clans had ended when a dark lion began killing to kill.

Grandmother-bear went on to explain to Bear and Violet that her mate, Gray-Eyed-Grandfather-bear had come into her dreams and told her of the mission, and of its healing significance to the clans. She mentioned that Grandfather-bear needed to be in their dreams tonight, and that they should go to owl and ask for guidance before sleeping.

Almost in a duo stammer, Violet and Bear began to question Grandmother-bear for more discernment. Composing themselves, the two then took turns asking questions and discussing the issues concerning Swaying-Pine-lion. When Grandmother-bear had told them as much as she knew, she turned toward Great River and announced that it was breakfast time and then strolled over the bank and into the shallows.

Violet had eaten enough salmon and trout to last her for a few days, but stayed to watch the two bears fish. She watched how they stalked a potential catch, how they prayed before eating, and how they meticulously cleaned each set of bones of every nourishing morsel. Violet's appreciation for her new friends was only out-weighed by her respect for the traits of connectedness they were both demonstrating.

Grandmother-bear said goodbye to Violet from the mussel shoal she had been fishing from, and then turned to Bear. She told him she had named his new twins. Usually bears are named long after birth when they are to go through an adult ceremony, except when they exhibit a unique trait or are born as twins. Twins are named so their mother can call them individually and help manage them in other ways. As she turned to leave, Grandmother-bear boasted that Bear's sons were now to be known as Fire-Walker-bear and Dancing-Rain-bear.

Bear walked up onto a nearby sand bar and sat down. As he quietly watched Grandmother-bear walk downstream, Bear thought about the fact that his sons were destined to be attacked by the dark one called Swaying-Pine-lion. The hair on his neck rose on end as Bear dwelled on these thoughts. He looked over toward his knew friend Violet to find she was still staring at Grandmother-bear. Violet's tail was swinging wildly from side to side.

A Special Ceremony:

Bear told Violet that he would like to forage for some things to gift owl with, since there would need to be a meeting with the old friend. Violet said kind words of strength and health regarding Bear and his family, and then walked away into Great Forest.

Grandfather Sun was flying almost directly above Bear in Father Sky. Bear walked deep into the undergrowth of Great Forest where he could forage for things Owl could use in his burrow. Bear gathered cedar shavings from a dry fallen tree, white sage from the edge of a large meadow, and several other herbs and plants that he carefully bundled.

Dizzy Hummingbird saw Bear and flew around him so as to inquire about a meeting she had heard took place between him and a lioness. Bear greeted Hummingbird and offered complements to her on how quick she appeared to be today. He answered her questions, and also told her there would be a meeting at Owl's burrow in the evening.

Hummingbird understood the meeting tonight would be a learning ceremony, and asked if she could help Bear prepare for it. He welcomed her help and thought about how she might be able to participate.

Bear placed a small dried oak leaf on a large rock and asked Hummingbird to please gather lavender nectar and place it on the leaf. Lavender was one of Owl's favorite scents and it helped him with the visions he would have while confronting Great Spirit for divine discernment. Bear told Hummingbird he would come back way and gather the leaf into his bundle later.

Word spread quickly about Bear and Violet and the ceremony they planned to have at Owl's burrow tonight. Many creatures in Great Forest prepared to witness or take part in the ceremony. Bear noted an increase in activity through Great Forest as folks were seen dealing with chores by darting about or slowly crawling, depending on their means of mobility. Several folks, like Hummingbird, helped Bear prepare his bundle.

Eventually Bear went back to the rock where he had seen Hummingbird and found the oak leaf was nearly saturated with lavender nectar. Bear carefully pushed a large oak leaf under the first, and then placed one on top of the other two. After securing the first leaf this way, Bear added it to his bundle with everything else.

Returning to Great River, Bear indulged in some more fishing. With exception to a short rest, he fished nearly all afternoon. Eating was of primary concern with regard to recovering physical strength from fasting during his long sleep. When the games began Bear noticed that bears fishing in Great River kept an eye on the other bears, but did not quit fishing. Most of them were also eating their way to recovery.

When Bear had eaten his fill of fish again, he caught a couple of brown trout and added them to his bundle for Owl. Instead of taking a path directly to Owl's burrow, Bear ambled along the bank of Great River watching grandmother bears initiating their daughter's new cubs. When he saw Golden-Eyes-Grandmother-bear with a cub he hesitated. When Bear realized it was a cousin's new born and not his, he turned onto a path that led into Great Forest and headed towards Owl's burrow.

As Bear got closer to Owl's burrow he encountered more and more of the folks who live in Great Forest. Despite the fact that folks were congregating here this area was unusually quiet, since most folks were concentrating on the ceremony that would soon begin. One sound Bear could not help but notice was a particularly beautiful song that Cricket sang tonight.

As he entered the clearing where Owl lives, Bear mentally noted who was already there for ceremony including members of the Bear Clan, the Wolf Clan, the Beaver Clan, the Otter Clan, and of course Violet-Rose-lion of the Lion Clan. There were also some birds, insects, frogs and an assortment of other creatures.

Most folks in the meadow were meditating and praying for Owl. Some had there eyes closed, some stared into the night, and some watched as Grandmother Moon flew up from the horizon. As each creature bearing gifts came into the meadow, they made their way to the pine stump where Owl had a burrow. Once there they placed a gift or gifts next to the others that had been brought by other folks.

Centipede crawled up the pine stump and into Owl's burrow to check on his status. She then came back out and told the gathering crowd that Owl was restless, and most likely experiencing visions. Eventually Centipede crawled down from the burrow entrance explaining that Owl was now awake.

Owl walked out to the entrance of his burrow and stood there for a few moments blinking his large eyes and looking around at the crowd of folks who had gathered. He noted all the gifts that had been brought to ceremony, all the strange faces of the young creatures he had not met yet, and all the folks he had known for some time. Owl looked up at Grandmother Moon and the stars.

Looking back down and around the small meadow, Owl thanked the folks who had gathered for coming together tonight. He told them that the spirits of the directions were obviously at work within them, and that the spirits were present in the meadow tonight.

For all present to understand their involvement, Owl explained that Great Spirit and ancestors from several clans had touched most of the folks who were present and many others. He told the crowd that this was done to bring them together to work as a team when they help vanquish a darkness that haunts Great Forest. Owl mentioned that he had been given three visions by Great Spirit.

Owl explained his first vision had a river that turned into unbreakable ice. Folks who lived by fishing for meals had to forage for other food. Many of these folks became angry about not being able to fish, since their hunger caused them to get confused. They no longer appreciated the many meals Great Spirit had provided through the fish in the first place, and they did not feel compassion for the fish that had frozen to death.

In the Second of Owl's visions a fog lingered in Great Forest for a long time. The fog was so dense that it blinded folks from being able to see themselves. Although it was uncomfortable at first, folks adapted by using their other senses more often.

The third vision involved a small flower growing in a meadow amongst thick and tall blades of grass. Elk was grazing on the grasses in the meadow and stepped on the flower, which ultimately killed it.

Owl explained that one can derive many messages from these visions. He went on to say that folks should not allow confusion to destroy self, to destroy standards of living or to destroy relationships with others and Great Spirit. He added that when confused we must turn to Great Spirit for help. Owl indicated that the second vision was about learning to apply all our talents when dealing with issues. Lastly he explained that the first and third vision was a warning for us to respect death and to never cause it unnecessarily.

Bear was not sure yet how to apply Owl's first two visions to his mission, but understood the third one to be about the dark lion. He asked Owl if there was any further guidance that Owl might be able to give the folks of Great Forest about the three visions, and about their mission.

To this Owl answered that there was only one other thing. Owl flew from his perch on the pine stump and swooped to the ground to land in front of Violet-Rose-lion. Looking her in the eyes he thanked her for coming to ceremony with the other creatures of Great Forest, and then thanked her for her diligence in working through her mission. He then turned to Bear and acknowledged Bear's commitments to the same mission.

Owl told the rest of the folks in the ceremony that they should attend ceremonies as often as possible, since it is easier to discern Great Spirits messages in ceremony. Then he invited everyone to talk in turn about what they knew of the dark lion. He told them that the time they spent on discussions would help each other should they be directly involved with confronting the lion.

Ceremony, as usual, was very educational for those that attended. More lessons than usual were learned, since folks shared their wisdom and understandings about the time before the dark lion showed up. Before now, little was ever spoken about bears walking with lions because of the disappoint that developed when folks felt they could no longer trust lions.

As she flew above Father Sky in her path toward the horizon, Grandmother Moon watched her grandchildren who were holding a ceremony and she smiled. In the best way they knew how, these children of Earth Mother were preparing to deal with an issue long unresolved and very important to them. Grandmother Moon prayed to Great Spirit to support them with strength, courage, and safe passage along the Red Path.

On Fighting:

After catching a rather large rainbow trout and tossing it onto a sandbar, Bear stopped and took a long deep breath. He watched as the trout flopped about until it finally reached the water of Great River and swam away. Bear knew he would not miss the fish, since he had just realized he was dream walking again.

Ambling along the bank of Great River, Bear thought of finding his grandfather and then noticed he was at a different part of the river where Grey-Eyed-Grandfather-bear was talking to many wolves.

Slumbers With Eyes Open (a large snow-white wolf) was asking for details about who would lead the assault. Grey-Eyed-Grandfather-bear turned to look at Bear, and then gently spoke his grandson's name to answer the wolf. Bear, not showing his amazement at the prospect of leading anything, asked his grandfather to explain further.

Gray-Eyed-Grandfather-bear explained that Bear must lead the assault, since the wolves would be better at keeping the dark lion in check through the strength of their numbers. To this the wolves made sounds and said words of agreement and began fading like a morning fog at sunrise. After a few moments the only wolf remaining was Slumbers. He told Bear and his grandfather that it was time for him to wake up for the nightly hunt, and then also faded away.

Grandfather-bear asked Bear if he knew Slumbers and if he had deliberately chosen to be in his dreams. Bear looked at the old bear and told him he had chosen to be with his grandfather and had found himself here. His grandfather grinned and mentioned that his grandson was learning quickly, and could even enter a wolf's dreams now.

Explaining a new lesson, grandfather-bear mentioned that one must understand Self undeniably to understand those one must relate with. He told Bear that the time was very close when Bear would encounter the dark lion, and that Bear's best defense would be to find a safe place that would provide enough sound sleep at night. Grandfather-bear then mentioned that one should be well rested in order to effectively exert one's self.

Bear knew there was more to what his grandfather was speaking about than what he understood, but he also knew he would understand soon enough. At this time it was enough for him to center on finding a cave that was suitable for his extreme size.

Grandfather-bear mentioned to Bear that he had helped his grandson as much as possible except to mention one last thing. He told Bear that a vision was put into his head when he was talking to the wolves about the dark lion. The odd thing about the vision is that the source was unclear to him, except that he knew it was not from Great Spirit. He told Bear that the vision was simply about Bear dream walking upriver from where they were now, and of him meeting a large unfamiliar grizzly bear.

Violent Morning:

Warm rays of light cast from Grandfather Sun penetrated bright green leaves hanging from the branches of a maple tree Bear was sleeping under and woke him up to another spring morning. Dew clinging to grasses growing on the bank of Great River sparkled in the sunlight and made Bear think about how magical the river really was. He appreciated it for being his lifeline to survival by always providing the sustenance he needed to live.

Contemplating philosophy ended abruptly for bear when he heard the squeal of a bear cub from down river. Just as he looked in that direction, Bear saw a cub tumble out of the cave he had vacated days earlier. A second cub was scampering up the hillside over Great River back towards the cub that was now trying to regain his footing.

Jolting into a run down river, Bear roared with his deepest and loudest voice to let all within range know that the fierce warrior in their midst expected a clear path. His body moved like waves of a fluid because of how he used all his muscles to run, and his paws made a loud rhythmic sound as they pounded on Mother Earth under his massive weight.

Before the cubs could get back to the entrance of the cave, they were repelled by a second bellowing roar that was coming from in the cave. It was Mother-Red-bear and she made it obvious to anyone listening that she was extremely angry. Almost in answer to her roar, a third and weaker roar resounded from the cave. It was the dark lion.

Escaping Mother-bear's wrath, the lion bolted out of the cave and then hesitated on the outside rock ledge to gain its sight back. Seeing the defenseless cubs that were now cowering below it, the lion perched himself for a deadly strike and his tail began twitching back and forth like a huge snake.

As the lion leapt toward the two bear cubs, he felt a rib crack from the pressure of Bear butting him in his left flank and lifting him off his feet to be flung out into Great River. Though successful with his first show of force, Bear did not stop to assess damages or the lion's next move, but instead ran into Great River to strike again.

While swimming from the deep pool he had been tossed into, the dark lion noticed other grizzly bears were pouring out of Great Forest and making their way toward him. Some bears were running on pathways along Great River, and some were splashing on into Great River and then running his direction. The lion made his way into the river shallows where he began running and then dashed up the bank of Great River, into the undergrowth of Great Forest, and was gone.

Bear stood upright on his back paws sniffing the cool spring breeze for the lion's sent. It was much like that of Violet, yet also unique in its own way. It grew faint quickly, but not before Bear had a chance to read it and most of its characteristics. Other bears joining him now also stood up to try and catch the scent.

The cubs were overwhelmed with attention as Mother-bear and other bears examined them for injuries. A few scratches were licked for better healing, but there was nothing serious. Mother-bear told the cubs that they were good to have stayed outside where she had pushed them.

Wandering-Brook-bear came limping from the cave and bleeding profusely from her right front paw. Looking at her wounds in daylight, she quietly whimpered and then fainted to the ground. Several bears went to her aid including Mother-bear. Seeing her daughter in such condition caused her adrenaline to peak again and she grabbed Wandering-Brook-bear by the nap of her neck and dragged her down to the river.

One of the grandmother bears started making a clay pack for Wandering-Brook-bear's more serious wounds, and other bears started gathering plants to add together for a poultice. As she woke up Wandering-Brook-bear grinned at all the nurturing bears that hovered over her and asked how her baby brothers were. Mother-bear began to cry as she told her they were fine, and that she would be too.

Bear addressed the other Bears in Great River that were now talking about the dark lion. He told them that before it threatens us or ours again, we must seek him out on our terms. The others agreed that they must organize themselves, other bears, and other creatures of Great Forest and then begin a hunt for the dark lion.

Preparing for a Hunt:

Dispersing themselves along Great River, the bears began fishing for breakfast and also began to carry word for those who could help to get ready for a hunt. The wolf clan split into smaller packs and started combing Great forest's trails, meadows and undergrowth for the scent of lions. Birds flew swiftly through and over Great Forest looking for any signs of mountain lions. The creatures helping look for the dark lion were assisted by others who transmitted messages back and forth for them.

After filling himself with salmon and trout Bear decided it was time to take a nap. Lying down on a sandbar that was being bathed by Grandfather Sun's warm rays, Bear quickly fell asleep.

Stopping for a moment on the path along Great River, Bear realized that he was dream walking again. Looking about, Bear realized he was way upstream from where he fished most often, and this reminded him of Gray-Eyed-Grandfather-bear's vision about him meeting a strange bear.

Although birds, squirrels and even bears in and around Great River were doing what they typically would be found doing on a spring day, none of them were paying any attention to him. This didn't really bother him much, but Bear thought it was unusual for him to dream such a thing. Then Bear noticed an elderly male bear that was staring at him from a muscle shoal in Great River.

Bear walked down the river bank, into the shallows, and toward the large bear. He addressed the bear with blessings and formally introduced himself. The large bear introduced himself as Silver-Star-bear in a very deep and almost haunting voice.

Silver told bear that their meeting was timely, in that his wisdom would help bear with his current mission. He mentioned that the grandmothers had held a ceremony and had appointed Bear to be the Bear Clan's new war chief. His wisdom, Silver explained, was about having experience with holding the appointment of war chief long ago.

Pausing with his words often to allow Bear a chance to think some about each concept, the elderly bear told him of the responsibilities one faces as the war chief. One must lead in war, one must fight in war, and one must not kill unnecessarily. If the Clan feels war is needed, the war chief must decide if it is needed or only wanted. If the war chief wants war, he must go inside himself and heal. No one should want war.

Bear noticed something about the old bear that was unnerving. When the bear moved at all there was sort of a cloud about him. Not a white or gray cloud like in Father Sky, but other colors like green, purple, blue and red. The old bear's voice was very clear, yet had an echo or resonance about it that made it sound somewhat distant. After praising the warrior for his sharing of wisdom, Bear could not help but to question him about his rainbow colors and his unusual voice.

Silver explained that with each step one takes toward being closer to Great Spirit, so does that person also increase the ability to transmit Great Spirit's awesome power. One's aura begins to be more visible, and one's physical attributes begin to change. He went on to explain that the ancients have to whisper to be understood, and that they always have a visible aura. He made a metaphor by comparing it to Bear's need for preparing himself to confront the dark lion, and referring to Bear's size, it was now visibly obvious bear was prepared.

Bear told the elder that although he was physically ready, he was still unprepared for engaging the dark lion. He mentioned Gray-Eyed-Grandfather-bear's words about him needing to find a secure place to sleep before he would be ready. To this Silver replied with words about a cave nearby that would suit Bear very well. Then Silver faded away and left Bear's dream.

Bear woke up to find his grandmother licking on his face as if he were a cub. After looking around to see who else might be watching, Bear found he was surrounded by many grandmothers. They chuckled and laughed at how embarrassed he was to be nurtured awake in this manner. His grandmother mentioned to Bear that he was never too old for a good licking, even if he was a war chief, and the grandmothers laughed some again. Bear addressed them all and told them of having been visited by Silver-Star-bear in his dream. A quietness came over them immediately and they listened as Bear told them how he had been instructed.

Grandmother-bear explained that although the Bear Clan was not intending to wage war, a hunt was conducted much in the same way. She told Bear that she was proud of him for so readily accepting his rapid inner growth this year and that the Bear Clan would prosper with him as its new war chief.

Bear dismissed himself from the company of the elders and began walking up river. At first he ambled along through the shallow water in Great River, but then he picked up his pace by leaving the river and walking on the path next to it. Eventually bear reached the point in the river where he had found Silver-Star-bear in his dream.

Looking around at the landscape, Bear decided he would take a path that appeared to lead toward a bluff near Great River. After a short walk Bear found a cave entrance that he cautiously investigated. He looked at the path for any resent bear tracks, he sniffed the air for fresh scents left by bears, and finally he walked through a large entrance way.

Inside the large cave Bear found that a crack in its ceiling allowed a shaft of Father Sun's rays to enter and cause a crudely circular spot of light to form on the cave's floor. Noticing the small pond of water near the circle of light, Bear knew surface and rain water entered there as well. His first thought about the cave was that it was too large, too well lit, and too open to Mother Earth's elements to be good for sleeping in. However, as he walked further into the cave Bear found a path that went through an opening in a rock and into a smaller chamber.

Investigating the small chamber was interesting to him because of the things Bear found in there. Many of the same things he gave owl at ceremony time were stashed here along with some plants and stones he had no understanding of. They were next to an area that had been used as a bear's bed. The bedding was old and had not been used for a long time. Raking his claws through the bedding, Bear found that it was dry and did not have a fowl smell, since cedar shavings had been mixed with the leaves.

A short while later Bear had made his way around in the cave enough to know he was now home. He went outside and looked around for dead oak branches with leaves that he took back to his den for fresh bedding. He also foraged for some cedar shavings to do as the bear before him and mix them with his new bedding.

As Bear was returning to his cave he found a meadow that he immediately recognized. On one edge of the meadow Bear found a large maple tree and with a mighty stroke he clawed four marks into the tree. He stood there a moment admiring his territorial marking, and then praised Great Spirit for having brought him here in his dreams.

A soft voice at his feet asked bear if he were one to be feared, and looking down Bear found Sienna-rattlesnake. Somewhat amused by her cunning question, he retorted that he was not to be feared by rattlesnakes. Sienna grinned but contained herself to be able to ask another question. She simply asked if Bear was afraid of Self.

Bear, keeping up with the snake's line of thought, replied that he was only afraid of fear and therefore not afraid at all. Sienna's tail fluttered at the answer and she finally broke into a chuckle. When she recovered, she told Bear that she was not so amused by his answer as she was by an answer she had for a question of his. Then she mentioned she was honored to finally know the bear that left the markings in the maple tree. Understanding the reference to her answer in his dream, Bear grinned and told Sienna he was honored to know her as well.

Bear told Sienna he must get back to work, but that he would enjoy discussing issues with her sometime. With this he turned away to go back to his cave. Sienna told Bear that twice he had passed this way and received help from her, and that the next time he passed it would be time for him to return the favor.

Another Meeting:

Although his new bed was very compelling, Bear decided it would be better to nap after fishing for some lunch. He walked out of his den into the large chamber and then on outside. While walking down toward Great River, Bear noticed a young wolf coming up the path. She was startled at the sight of Bear, but stood her ground.

She announced herself as Moon Dancer of the Wolf Clan, and then indicated that the Wolf Clan had sent her to find Bear and tell him the Wolves had found the scent of the Dark Lion. She added they were now hunting for where it might be. Formally announcing his name as Brown-Stripe-Father-bear of the Bear Clan, he then thanked Moon for her help in these matters.

Bear noticed Moon did not look him in the eyes, since she had not been around bears very much. She did not know if he was to be trusted, and refused to act like he was. He invited her to eat lunch with him and after accepting, she walked with him to Great River.

Knowing Moon had most likely not eaten fish, Bear caught a small brown trout and ate it on a sandbar in front of his guest. Bear threw the next fish he caught to the middle of the sandbar. Although Moon struggled to capture the large salmon, she eventually did and buried her fangs into it for the kill. At this her eyes rolled from the taste and then she began to eat.

Moon was impressed with her new friend. Although he appeared clumsy, he was quite agile in how he fished. He was independent in hunting for and catching his lunch, and he was sharing it with another creature. This was not the way of the wolf pack. She let Bear know about her observations, and then started eating a fish he had just thrown to her.

When Bear was almost ready to strike at a large rainbow trout, he stopped to find out why Moon had begun to howl loudly and to even growl occasionally. She was looking up onto the bank of Great River at Violet-Rose-lion.

Bear stepped up onto the sandbar next to Moon and asked the lioness if she were hungry for some lunch. Startled at his actions, Moon got quiet and watched Bear and Violet with caution. Violet told Bear she was still not hungry and then turned and addressed Moon with a formal greeting and introduction. Moon returned the formality and told Violet she respected anyone who might be friends with her new bear friend.

Another lioness walked up next to Violet accompanied by one of Moon's brothers, and then other lionesses and lions joined them until their numbers became more than could be counted. Bear was awed by the sight of so many lions, and he sat down next to Moon gazing onto the bank of Great River. Violet told Bear that there was need for a meeting between the Bear Clan and the Lion Clan before the dark lion was to be apprehended.

Turning to Moon, Bear asked if she and her kin would be so kind as to spread word along Great River about a meeting that would take place at his new cave. Moon told Bear that they would be honored to help. Moon and her brother talked for a few moments and then ran away in opposite directions up and down the path along Great River.

Bear turned to the folks who had just walked up to Great River and formally announced his name. Then Bear asked if any of them were hungry for a nice salmon lunch. Several positive responses were enough, and he went back to fishing. Bear ate now and then, but mostly caught fish for the warriors and warrioresses of the Lion Clan. He was eventually joined by several other bears that also fished for lunch.

Other creatures carried word about the meeting away from Great River and into Great Forest. They spoke of Bear's new home, of lions and bears eating together, and of hunting for the dark lion. Most creatures in Great Forest knew about the hunt, and those who did not assist or participate prayed for Great Spirit's will to be done.

The shaft of light descending from the cave ceiling was dimmer now that Grandfather Sun had flown past his apex in Father Sky, but it was still bright enough to navigate through the large chamber easily. As lions and bears entered the cave they mumbled words back and forth in greeting, in renewing acquaintance, or in simply discussing any news about the dark lion. Eventually they found a spot to stand in, sit in, or lye in.

With many bears and lions gathered in the large cave chamber, Bear began the meeting by entering the shaft of light casting from the ceiling so others could see him while he was speaking. He began by welcoming his guests and by generally accounting for the events leading up to the hunt and of this day's events regarding the dark lion. He praised Great Spirit in general, and also for having brought the Lion and Bear Clans back together. After addressing the Lion and Bear Clans in this way, Bear walked from the spot of light to his father's side and sat down.

Red-Cedar-lion, an elder, rose from where he had been lying, walked into the circle of light, and addressed everyone in a weak voice. He mentioned that to kill a creature for a reason other than eating was indisputably wrong, since it dishonored the dead creature. He added that to kill one from another clan in this way is also wrong, as it dishonors the dead creature's clan and one's own clan. Then he said that if the dark lion was to be killed, it should be done by a lion.

As the elderly lion left the spot of light Strike-Swiftly-Grandfather-bear walked into the light, sat down quietly, and took a deep long breath. Strike mentioned that the collective wisdom in the cave this afternoon was awesome even to an elderly bear such as himself. He also mentioned that the old bond between bears and lions had not been broken by the actions of one lion, but instead by the actions of two clans. Drawing another deep breath, Strike told the lions and bears that the two clans must now work hard to heal the old bond and make it stronger than before through greater actions.

Other bears and lions had a few words or concepts to address as well, but none that Violet and Bear had not already dealt with between themselves until Grandmother-Green-Moss-lion spoke from the circle. She told Bear that he must heed Gray-Eyed-Grandfather-bear's warning about not fighting the dark lion on only one plain. Grandmother-lion went on to mention that Bear had already confronted the lion on the material plain where it had easily slipped away. She told Bear in an insistent voice that he must now confront Swaying-Pine-lion by dream walking to him.

Grandmother-lion also addressed Violet in the same insistent voice. You must also be in dreamtime during the hunt so that Bear can walk through your dreams and find Swaying-Pine-lion. She mentioned that the cave would accommodate the lioness being asleep as well as any other place, and that therefore Violet should stay with Bear.

On Dreaming:

The sounds of baying in the distance told all present that the wolves were closing in on the location of the dark lion and that it could not be far from here. Violet and Bear remained where they had been sitting and watched as a flurry of lions and bears made their way toward and out of the cave's exit.

Violet began weeping. She confided in Bear the most horrid detail about all this, and the most difficult for her to face. Swaying-Pine-lion and Violet were of the same mother. She explained that Swaying-Pine-lion is from and older litter, but her brother just the same. When Violet told Bear this detail about her being the dark lion's sister his heart slumped as he realized why she was so involved in this mission.

Bear told Violet that they must work together in dreamtime, and that to do so they must both take naps as soon as possible. Bear asked Violet if she were in need of anything that might help her sleep. Violet responded telling Bear that she would drink a little water to settle down and that sleeping on a rock ledge she had spotted in the corner of this room would be fine. Saying blessings for their journeys, Bear retired to the small sleeping chamber and settled down for a nap.

Cricket, knowing the large mammals needed sound sleep, hopped into the large chamber and began playing a simple and slow tune. This was not an easy thing for him to do, since his tune was not of the same rhythm as that of his family. They were outside the cave transmitting messages about each event that took place in the hunt.

In a confusing battle of the morning, Swaying-Pine-lion had allowed a mother bear to get the best of him resulting in another cave skirmish. Worse than that he had been put in check by a large father bear that had cracked one of his ribs and had bruised him fiercely. For the rest of the day he had been running or hiding. At this point he had put a lot of distance between himself and a wolf pack that had pursued him, so he decided to take a short nap and regain his strength.

Finding a large tree to sleep in was not a problem, but finding one that would provide protection was. His sleeping loft would have to be high enough to be a challenge to get to, but also one that he could see from in most directions. The loft would also have to be of branches strong enough and broad enough to cradle his large body.

Swaying was named for his ability to cause pine trees to bend enough for him to jump to another pine tree close by and in this manner not have to go to the ground to move in a certain direction. Other lions had also learned how to do this, but they attributed Swaying with having figured it out in the first place.

Finding a large maple tree next to a meadow was just what Swaying had been hoping for. It met all the requirements he needed for sleeping in and there was a way to get into it without actually climbing into it from the ground. Circling out of the meadow and into the wooded area near the maple, Swaying once again earned his name by traversing from one to another of several pine trees. Finally he jumped into the maple tree and found a place to rest. Swaying listened to the sounds of wolves and knew they were of a different pack than had been following him. Other than the pack of wolves he had been running from, the wolf packs had little chance of finding his trail, since they were working in different directions.

Overcoming the pain in his chest, the large cat settled down and began to sleep. His restlessness during sleep, like his uncaring attitude about killing when awake, was indicative of a problem deep within his body and his Self. On occasion he was haunted by something that relentlessly overrode his natural abilities and otherwise normal ways of thinking. Although excusable to a degree for not being healthy, he had refused to seek care, and this was his greatest wrong doing.

Bear looked into his den to find himself fast asleep and then looked around in the large chamber to find Violet lapping a drink of water from the small pond. In a calm voice he told her that drinking the water would not do her any good. Violet looked up somewhat puzzled and explained to Bear that a drink might help her relax so that she could take a nap. She then asked Bear why he was not still asleep in his den. From all these things Bear realized Violet did not understand he was dream walking in her dream.

As he explained that she was fast asleep and that he was visiting her dream, Bear watched for any indication that he might be startling to Violet, since he did not want to wake her up. Violet accepted his words calmly, however, and found it amusing that she had not realized she was dreaming until Bear had told her. When Bear asked for Violet to turn around and look at the rock ledge she did so and chuckled at seeing herself asleep there.

When Violet turned back around she gasped as she stared at the area lit by Grandfather Sun. Swaying-Pine-lion sat there staring back at her. He said kind words to his sister and then turned toward Bear and offered other kind words.

Swaying-Pine-lion told Bear that subconsciously he was sorry about the attacks he had made on the Bear Clan's people, but that in his conscious mind he somehow considered them an enemy. Swaying told his sister and Bear that something was attacking his mind on occasion, and distorting his ability to think clearly. He added that the mental attacks were random and not believed to be deliberate.

Violet asked her brother if there was anything she could do to help his condition and his only response was negative. He told her he had been praying for help, but that Great Spirit had not yet answered his prayers. Swaying also mentioned that he had tried to visit other folks in their dreams, but that his efforts were futile until now. Turning to Bear, Swaying told him that he had opened a path into Violet's dreams by dream walking into them today.

Trough many tears Violet explained that those who were hunting for Swaying included other family members from the Lion Clan, and that they were prepared to destroy him. She begged her brother for any other solution that might end his torment without also ending his life on the Red Path. Swaying addressed his sister's appeal by explaining again that he had not found any way, and also explained that his transcending to Great Spirit may be the only solution to his condition. He added that when the body no longer functions correctly, perhaps it is no longer needed.

A grimace then came over Swaying-Pine-lion's face. Looking first at Bear, and then at Violet, Swaying told them he had just been poisoned and then disappeared from Violet's dream.

An Operation in Great Forest:

Violet screamed at the top of her loud voice and in doing so woke herself and Bear up from their dreams. They were both on their feet immediately and running for the exit to the cave. Following the sounds of the wolf pack, Violet and Bear bounded through Great Forest and into the small meadow near Bear's cave.

When he came out of the woods Bear made a bee line toward the maple tree. Roaring for folks to move from his path, he jumped over howling wolves and other smaller creatures, he passed through groups of lions, and he bounced into a bear now and then that happened into the way. Bear reached the tree before those who could climb it did and then turned to face the growing crowd.

This slowed the creatures of Great Forest down enough for Bear to get their attention and start calming them down. He told Violet that her brother's body must be brought down out of the tree quickly and carefully. He told the rest of the crowd that Swaying-Pine-lion had been poisoned by a Sienna-rattlesnake, and that wanted no harm to come to her.

Sienna slithered from a maple branch over Bear and then dropped to his shoulder. She explained to those who were close enough to hear that the lion was now in a temporary coma, but that he would survive the small amount of venom she had given him with a bite.

Violet and a large male lion climbed into the maple tree and lifted Swaying-Pine-lion's body down to a few bears that caught him and then laid him out on the ground. Many elderly lions, bears, wolves and other creatures examined Swaying's body as Violet and Bear explained what had had been said in Violet's dream. The examination was for any unusual wounds or scars that might be a clue to what Swaying had mentioned about being mentally attacked by something.

Wounds easily accounted for included a snake bite found on the lion's tail, bruises and scratches and claw marks in many places across the lion's legs and abdomen. The older wounds appeared to be healing properly, and the newer ones didn't show signs of infection. When Swaying-Pine-lion's body was finally turned over those examining him found fresh blood on his left ear. Washing Swaying-Pine-lions ear made it obvious that his injury was internal. Something had intruded into his head.

Blossom Beatle and other insects climbed up onto Swaying-Pine-lions head and up to his ear. Blossom clipped one of the lion's whiskers and shoved it down into his ear. As he drew it back out, he and other insects scanned it for any hints to what was causing the bleeding. A tiny parasite was finally detected by Charming Centipede and she told the other insects that earth worms ate this parasite for their meals sometimes when they did not have soft dirt to eat.

The insects contracted several earth worms to be used for ridding the lion of the parasites. Although the source of the parasites was unusual, the lion's blood was warm and moist, so the worms were able to work without rest. When they were sure they had eaten all the parasites from the wound in the lion's inner ear, the worms crawled back out of Swaying-Pine-lion's head and made their way back down to Earth Mother.

Many prayers were said to Great Spirit about helping Swaying-Pine-lion stay on the Red Path. Many words of wisdom were exchanged about not leaving Swaying-Pine-lion alone again until he had recovered well enough to know whether or not the parasites' damage was temporary.

Room Mates:

Swaying-Pine-lion opened his eyes and saw millions of stars floating around him. Neither he nor the stars appeared to be moving. As he looked at the stars he could not help but to praise Great Spirit for the many joys and blessings that he had received in his life. As he mentally asked Great Spirit if he had transcended, a face moved into his view and he stared into his sister's tear filled eyes.

Violet-Rose-lion choked as she tried to tell other folks that her brother was still alive and now waking up. With exception to the immediate area where Swaying-Pine-lion was resting and being cared for, the meadow was heavily populated with creatures of Great Forest . They had come here to help care for the lion, to wait for news about his recovery, or to socialize with other folks who had spent the night here.

After he had been fed a small breakfast, Swaying-Pine-lion was carefully hoisted onto Bear's back and carried to the large cave nearby. It had been discussed and decided that he would live there while he recuperated from his wounds, and be nurtured by lions, bears, and other creatures.

When Bear was alone with Swaying-Pine-lion one day he mentioned that the lion had shown him a new humility. Bear told the lion that it is too easy to jump to conclusions about someone that is misunderstood, easy to fear them, and easy to wish them harm. He then told Swaying-Pine-lion that it was good to have him as a friend and room mate.

Swaying-Pine-lion told Bear he was glad that the parasites had not harmed him permanently, and that he knew of some wounds much greater than his own that were now being healed. He told Bear that he did not like the fact that his condition had caused so much bias and bigotry to surface in those of the Bear Clan and Lion Clan. He mentioned that he intended to make it a life long mission out of assuring such feelings did not live again in bears and lions. Swaying-Pine-lion told Bear that a part of living is to always support the healing of those one lives with, and then he fell asleep and went for a walk.

Alan

12-23-2000

Bear's Stories...

© 2000. This material cannot be duplicated, reproduced or changed without the express written permission of the author.