Ducks Fly Moon

“Life is a circle, from birth to death to rebirth.  Humans, like the seasons, pass through many phases during their lives.  The moon stones of the Medicine Wheel give us a way of understanding and celebrating these changes.  The moon during which you were born determines your starting point on the wheel.”[1]

If your birthday is between September 23rd and October 23rd, then you have a special bond with this moon.

You also have several Spirit Guardians that look over you during your journey through life. First, your Animal Totem for this moon is the Raven. The spirit of the Raven is about rebirth, recovery, renewal, recycling, and certainly reflection and healing. He signifies moving through transitions smoothly by casting light into the darkness. Next, you are protected by Mudjekeewis, the Spirit Keeper of the West, and his Spirit Animal Guide the Owl. You are also a child of the West Wind and its spirit guide, the Bear, associated with the power of transformation, introspection, and grounding.

As for your Totem Animal, the Raven, some people believe them to be ugly creatures, similar in nature to the crows and connected with the idea of death. However, the Native Americans believe the Raven begins its life as an elegant white bird and turns black when it makes sacrifices. It is not associated with death, but change. It represents the past, present, and future.

During this moon shed your old perspectives and develop new ones. Do not be afraid to embrace change. The Raven’s lesson for you is to realize you cannot change the past, so honor it. You can mold your future by what you do in the present. What happens today plays a huge role in your life. If you find yourself being misunderstood, take strength from the misunderstood Raven.

If you are experiencing conflicts you cannot seem to resolve, it is time to allow the Raven and your other Guardians to aid your troubles. The Raven can help you observe your situations from all perspectives, and though he may require you to leave your comfort zone, he will let you know if you’re in danger or when to expect disappointment.

People born under this moon have an unintentional habit of striving to please others, and jumping into relationships or friendships without first exploring their own inner selves. However, the company of others makes them feel balanced and relaxed. The best companions will be those of the Otter and Deer Moons, Rest and Cleansing Moon (January 20th - February 18th) and Corn Planting Moon (May 21st - June 20th, respectively. They both share characteristics of strong compassion and friendliness.

The Ducks Fly Moon’s crystal is Bloodstone. Bloodstone (Heliotrope) may be classified as a Jasper or Chalcedony variety of Quartz, and is usually a combination of the two. It is typically defined as a dark green Chalcedony with blood-like spots of Red Jasper or iron oxide inclusions.

Wear or carry Bloodstone as an amulet of protection against threats or bullying, whether verbal or physical, and for guidance to withdraw when appropriate and the courage to confront when needed. Sew a small Bloodstone in the coat of a child or teenager who is being bullied.

Use Bloodstone on your Medicine Wheel or carry one for strength when adjusting to new circumstances, and to increase mental clarity and aid in decision-making. Use it to provide a mental boost when motivation is lacking and to revitalize the mind and body if you are exhausted.

Bloodstone stimulates dreaming and heightens intuition. It is marvelous for increasing creativity and cultivating a project from the idea stage through to actualization. It encourages blessings and prosperity.

This moon is also the time for Scarlet crystals. Scarlet combines the energy of the pure red ray and the exuberance and joy of the orange in a precious gift of nature. Scarlet is the color of strength and vitality, both physical and spiritual.

Use scarlet-colored crystals on your Medicine Wheel in efforts to overcome fear and improve self-reliance. They are the crystals of victory, success, and skill. When your challenge is physical, and you need to focus and multiply your physical strength and stamina, use a crystal with the scarlet ray of influence.