Core Strucfure

Each band within KM speaks as one voice and then these voices speak as one voice in general council which operates by consensus. Consensus is a more cumbersome system of governance but it is by far the most productive one as everyone must work together to achieve one common solution. There is no official opposition as everyone is the government.

It is the duty of these representatives to, on a regular basis, actively engage their clan members to both give information and receive direction. It is also the duty of the clan members to actively engage in their clan and government. If they choose to not engage, then they, by choice, give up their voice.

The internal business of the clans are looked after by their own. But, when necessary, the clans come together as equals to work together for the good of everyone in the KM spiritual tribal family.

There are seven common teachings associated with the medicine wheel in many First Nations’ cultures. These teachings vary by tribal custom and by the elders relating their own heritage and stories. However, there are a lot of common themes that can be taught and discussed that are very relevant to modern life and can be proudly taught as evidence of the high level of knowledge in cosmic things, in the changing of seasons, in timekeeping, in the use and respect for animals, in plants and in the elements.

The circle or wheel shape is a common symbol in many cultures and represents several elements to the First Nations. The circle acknowledges the connectedness of everything in life, the four seasons, the four life stages, the four winds etc. and represents the continuous cycle and relationships of the seen and unseen, the physical and spiritual, the cycles of life from birth to death, and the daily sunrise and sunset

The medicinal plants associated with the medicine wheel are all those that can be used to smudge. The plant associated with the yellow or eastern section of the medicine wheel is tobacco. Tobacco is a sacred plant used to honor the creator. It was the first medicinal plant given to the people. It is often offered as a gift to other medicinal plants and to honor the spirits or to begin a personal conversation with the creator. The plant of the south is sage. Sage is used often in ceremonies as a smudge to remove negative energies and to cleanse the mind ready for the ceremonies and teachings. Sweetgrass is the black area or the west and is a calming smudge and is used for purification prior to important ceremonies. Cedar is represented by the north or white part of the medicine wheel and it is a plant that can be for purification of an area such as a home or sweat lodge. It is often considered a guardian to the people to keep away evil. These teachings require an elder with special knowledge of the customs of the nation to discuss and teach to the youth of their community their heritage.

The alignment of the medicine wheel on the ground is placed in relation to the heavenly bodies and how they move through our lives. The sun rises in the east and the rising yellow sun is represented as the beginning on the medicine wheel. The rising sun signals a new day and this area is also seen as morning in some of the teachings. This area represents new beginnings and a renewal of the rhythms of life. The earth is represented by the south or directly below the stars or heavens. The earth is the sacred home of the people and giver of the essentials of life. It is a living system in which people are integrally bound and a part of from birth through death and spirit. The moon is represented by the west or the blackness of night. The moon helps to guide times of planting and a way of recording time and events. The stars mirror what is below and are representative of those that have gone before, of ways of understanding traveling at night using the constellations. These teachings require an elder with special knowledge of the customs of the nation to discuss and teach to the youth of their community their heritage.

Lessons and gifts from the EAST, the place of first light, spring, and birth, include: Warmth of the spirit Purity, trust, and hope Unconditional love Courage Truthfulness Guidance and leadership Capacity to remain in the present moment

Lessons and gifts from the SOUTH, the place of summer and youth, include: Generosity, sensitivity, and loyalty Romantic love Testing of the physical body/self-control Gifts of music and art Capacity to express feelings openly in ways respectful to others

Lessons and gifts from the WEST, the place of autumn and adulthood, include: Dreams, prayers, and meditation Perseverance when challenged Balance between passionate loyalty and spiritual insight Use of personal objects, sacred objects Understanding of life’s meaning Fasting, ceremony, self-knowledge, and vision

Lessons and gifts from the NORTH, the place of winter and elders, include: Intellectual wisdom Ability to complete tasks that began as a vision Detachment from hate, jealousy, desire, anger, and fear Ability to see the past, present, and future as interrelated

CORE PRINCIPLES

Each band within KM speaks as one voice and then these voices speak as one voice in general council which operates by consensus. Consensus is a more cumbersome system of governance but it is by far the most productive one as everyone must work together to achieve one common solution. There is no official opposition as everyone is the government.

It is the duty of these representatives to, on a regular basis, actively engage their clan members to both give information and receive direction. It is also the duty of the clan members to actively engage in their clan and government. If they choose to not engage, then they, by choice, give up their voice.

The internal business of the clans are looked after by their own. But, when necessary, the clans come together as equals to work together for the good of everyone in the KM spiritual tribal family.

CORE STRUCTURE

Each band within KM speaks as one voice and then these voices speak as one voice in general council which operates by consensus. Consensus is a more cumbersome system of governance but it is by far the most productive one as everyone must work together to achieve one common solution. There is no official opposition as everyone is the government.

It is the duty of these representatives to, on a regular basis, actively engage their clan members to both give information and receive direction. It is also the duty of the clan members to actively engage in their clan and government. If they choose to not engage, then they, by choice, give up their voice.

The internal business of the clans are looked after by their own. But, when necessary, the clans come together as equals to work together for the good of everyone in the KM spiritual tribal family.

Kautantowit's Mecautea (KM) is Bear Clan:

We are Nature's children, regardless of indifference... eveyy single living breathing being. Our species though have been called to the expectation and obligation to protect our Earth... especially beings it0s our species... the "human beings" who are raking all the havoc and causing all of the damage, harm and destruction of and upon it!

Kautantoiwt's Mecautea are honored as being Bears as far as our spiritual tribal family collective is concerned, which are one of the most important and widespread clan animals throughout human history in all four corners of mother globe. The Bear is a desirable ally and powerful spirit totem, because of man's reverence towards them.

Bear animal spirit guide symbolizes strength and power, including that of God. Bear people such as the members of KM growl at adversity, and without doubt or hesitation, come to the rescue of those in their circle in times of need. As a member of KM you can rest assured knowing that whatever adversity you face, bear gives the message that you are never alone... that as your Mother Bear, KM holds you firm and do all we can to keep you grounded and safe until hardships pass. Bear Spirit provides us with strength in times when we feel weak or helpless.

Life can prove challenging, and Bear is definitely up to the task – no matter the source. Bear is the Primal Mother who guides and protects, which is why Bear claws often became amulets and talismans. The mother bear protects her cubs with ferocity.

Bears protect their family and continue to fight through injuries, even willing to sacrifice their own life for their young. Like the mother bear, the Bear Clan is responsible for protecting their people. It is said that people of the Bear Clan are short tempered and live on the outside of the village to ensure the safety of the gentler clans inside the village. The bear clan is also the medicine people for they know the healing ways of the plants available to them. Industrious, instinctive, healing, power, sovereignty, guardian of the world, watcher, courage, will power, self-preservation, introspection, and great strength.

If you have been swallowing your words and compromising your vision, Bear’s message is, “Stay true.” The one caution of which to remain aware is that Bear people have hot tempers. Be careful not to attack without just cause. Discernment is your ally.

The strength of Bear medicine is the power of introspection. Bear is not one to make snap decisions, nor one to ramrod or force into any position. Bear takes in all available information, takes it into his quiet place, studies that information carefully, gives it careful thought for a while, and then reaches his own informed decisions based on the facts at hand. Bear is the one who says, "I have to think about this. I'll be in touch later." You can rely on opinions coming from a Bear person as being well thought out and thorough, and based on the facts given. To accomplish the goals and dreams that we carry, the art of introspection is necessary. It is in the Dream Lodge that our ancestors sit in Council and advise us regarding alternative pathways that lead to our goals.

Bear Spirit has close ties with Shamanic tradition, particularly, in Northern America and Siberia. A polar Bear specifically receives veneration as a sage and educator. Vikings wore Bearskins to frighten on-coming hoards and invoke the strength of the Bear in battle. Among Native Americans Bear represents extremely strong Medicine, including the special powers in the areas of wisdom, strength, and healing.

Bear is a fierce warrior, especially when protecting their young. They appear to be lumbering and slow, but can have lightning speed when threatened. They love fish when they can get it, but they also eat berries, honey, etc. Bear people like home and shelter, and like to be warm and cozy. safeguarding the clan or tribe; energizing themselves for battle; strengthening one’s will and personal vigor to endure the “fight;” and pacing one’s self so that it becomes possible to act at the right moment.

With Bear Medicine, the power of knowing has invited you to enter the silence and become acquainted with the Dream Lodge, so that your goals may become concrete realities. This is the strength of Bear.

Bear Symbolism

Motherhood
Resurrection
Bravery
Peace
Power
Benevolence
Sovereignty
Duality

Nurturing and Protection

We intuit these attributes by the commitment bear mothers make to their offspring. Whether your offspring is in children or ideals, the bear will lend you the determination required for rearing up strong results.

Hibernating Bear Symbolism

Yin
Feminine
Moon
Winter
Inaction
Darkness
Introspection
Subconscious

Patience and Connection

Hibernating with our ideas or projects until a better time presents itself. Further, bear will speak to you about connecting to both earth-based energy and celestial (sun/moon) forces. Tapping into the bear will also allow you to tap into the wax, wane and flow of life.

The Awakening Bear Symbolism

Yang
Masculine
Sun
Action
Spring/Summer
Lightness
Extroversion
Consciousness

Confidence and Authority

By its physical presence, the bear reminds us we can be larger than life if we raise ourselves up to our inherent status. Moreover, no one questions the bear. This kind of authoritative presence will be a lesson the bear can impart.

Momma Bear is also cunning and knowledgeable about the plants of the forest, which might b another reason you may also find a calling in KM is the medicines we defend and utilize Without Constriction, be it holistic or mainstream. Bear Spirit is restorative and recuperative.

Now, onto our Bands...

For many different nations, there are many different animals that the tribes looked to and honored.

For some, including KM, they utilize the clan system which gives certain responsibilities under their respective clan symbol. Each clan and band has a specific set of values and traditions that they live their lives based upon.

KM's Wolf Band:

The Wolf spirit is that of intelligence which relies on keen instincts and the love of freedom. When this animal is in a pack, it represents the feeling of community. Wolves possess an elegant combination of strength and endurance coupled with grace. They are both lean and powerful. They are the most trusted helpers and guides to Bear Clan... our "right hand man" if you will. The KM Wolf band are in essence our chiefs of safety and security for the whole of our spiritual tribal community and family.

Wolves love to be with other wolves. They form deep bonds with the other members of their pack and they depend on each other to survive. Wolves put the pack first, above their own interests. This is why you’ll see wolves fall into line to perform the role within the pack for which they’re best suited. Above all, wolves want their pack to thrive. Among their more notable traits include:

Loyalty
Family and Friendship
Teamwork
Protection
Wildness
Freedom
Instincts
Endurance
Curiosity
Playfulness

While they are naturally friendly and playful, wolves are also the epitome of ferocity if they or their loved ones are threatened in any way. They are extremely protective of their pups, their pack, and their territory. Wolf is considered a medicine being associated with courage, strength, loyalty and success at hunting. Like bears, wolves are considered closely related to humans by many North American tribes, and the origin stories of some Northwest Coast tribes.

The wolf spirit animal tells you to not allow learned fears and insecurities to override your natural curiosity. Don’t get caught up in negative thought patterns and emotions that don’t serve you, because there’s a great big world out there, full of curiosities and wonder!

If you feel threatened or distrustful, the wolf band of KM are here to help you overcome these obstacles.

Remember. whenever a wolf appears to you, the message is to pay closer attention to your instincts and intuition. the wolf totem is a helpful symbol for manifesting more protection, better instincts, and stronger relationships in your life. In addition, the wolf totem is a helpful symbol for breaking free of restrictions on your life, whether they are physical, creative, or financial.

Some subordinate K-9 Bands of KM are as follows:

Fox Band
Lion Band
Coyote Band
Lion Band
Dog Band

Feline Bands:

Unanimously, the felines are equal opposite of our Wolf and K9 bands. Our felines represent the guardians of the Otherworld, and are more mythologically important characters associated with the stars. The spirit of the feline bands are very much more female orientated in nature and outward disposition, however gender is irrelevant.

As with our wolves, our feline bands are highly respected for their intelligent, social grace, and for being ferociously protective.

Astute, crafty and clever by instinct, not only do the feline bands of KM make great Otherworld guardians, they are also liaisons to mystic realms and sacred teachings as ell, especially relating to those of the Matriarchal nature. When invoked, they can grant the caller a variety of insights regarding more esoteric, ethereal knowledge.

Felines rely on their keen instincts and loves freedom. If you feel threatened or distrustful, the feline bands can help you overcome these obstacles. Whenever a feline appears to you, the message is to pay closer attention to your instincts and intuition.

Some Feline Bands of KM are as follows:

Panther Band
Mountain Lion Band
Bobcat Band
Leopard Band
Lynx Band
Tiger Band

Hoof Band:

The Hoof Band were known for their kindness, gentle and soft spoken nature like the animals they represent. The Hoof Clan were responsible for looking after the social aspects of the community including ceremonies and celebrations.

Some Hoof Bands are as follows:

Moose Band
Elk Band
Antelope Band
Buffalo Band
Deer Band
Horse Band
Ram Band

Bird Band:

The bird can fly high in the sky observing the world at great distances. Like the Eagle, the bird is known to be closest to the creator as they are part of the sky world and can access his/her wisdom. The Bird Clan are the keepers of knowledge and responsible for spreading the seeds of knowledge. The Bird Clan were traditionally the teachers and farmers.

Some Additional Bands are as follows:

Hawk Band
Falcon Band
Owl Band
Raven Band
Butterfly Band
Flicker Band
Pelican Band
Turkey Band

Reptilian Bands:

The reptile and the amphibian world give us fathoms of lessons and wisdom. Amphibians and reptiles are all about sensory perception. They reverberate to the energy of awareness, being alert, and taking care of business. Wonderful stuff like: Transformation, Disguise, Agility, Adaptation, Sensitivity.

Some Reptilian Bands of KM are as follows:

Turtle Band
Snake Band
Frog Band
Bear Band
Snake Band
Lizard Band
Dragon Band
Alligator Band

Fish Band:

The fish watch the sky and have the knowledge of the sun, stars, and moon. In this way, the Fish Clan hold the most intelligence and are the people’s philosophers. They are also advisers to the Chief Clans. Water animals, such as fish, crustaceans, etc. have a pearl of equally vibrant and diverse wisdom to share with all of us.

Some Fish Bands of KM are as follows:

Salmon Band
Dolphin Band
Whale Band
Shark Band
Eel Band

Some Ancestor Bands are as follows:

Butterfly Band represents transformation, inspiration, and rebirth. The concept of rebirth with the Celts is particularly of importance in terms of recycling of life – both in the spiritual and physical realms.
Hummingbird Band
Mermaid Band
Sasquatch Band
Lochness Band
Unicorn Band
Dragon Band
Badger Band
Monkey Band
Beaver Band
Otter Band

Band Purpose & Function:

Each band within KM speaks as one voice and then these voices speak as one voice in general council which operates by consensus. Consensus is a more cumbersome system of governance but it is by far the most productive one as everyone must work together to achieve one common solution. There is no official opposition as everyone is the government.

It is the duty of these representatives to, on a regular basis, actively engage their clan and band members to both give information and receive direction. It is also the duty of the clan and band members to actively engage in their clan and government. If they choose to not engage, then they, by choice, give up their voice.

The internal business of the clans are looked after by their own. But, when necessary, the clans and bands come together as equals to work together for the good of everyone in the KM spiritual tribal family.

KM's CORE...

CORE RIGHTS

CORE BELIEFS

CORE PRINCIPLES

CORE STRUCTURE

Now, onto our Bands...