Sometimes my mind can be rather playful when I am taking photographs. This photo, taken on my small back deck, spoke Rorschach symbolism to me when I snapped it. It had naturally occurred from fresh white snow caressing a small tree branch.
Patterns have always intrigued me. This pattern appeared rather mystical -- like a Native American white buffalo.
Later that day, when I was back in my cozy abode, I looked up its symbolism. On this Native American site it said the appearance of a white buffalo is rare -- it signifies a time of change upon the planet and a new level of responsibility for humankind. Their interpretation leaves lots of room for our imagination.
that symbolism seems rather telling for our time.
ReplyDeleteI thought it ironic when I looked up the symbolism. Made me stop and think a bit -- thanks barbara
DeleteQuite a thought provoking post! I really liked it.
ReplyDeleteMamabug -- I agree that we do need to meet a new level of responsibility for our earth -- thanks -- barbara
DeleteI like that - very symbolic and especially needed at this time in our country. The Mayans did say this was the start of a new time in the Universe - let it begin!
ReplyDeleteJoAnn -- Did not know this about the Mayans -- like to learn more about their culture. I think Mother Earth is beginning to show some sass. She is the the boss and is showing her might by droughts and storms and climate changes. thanks -- barbara
DeleteI truly believe that individuals, especially those who make a habit of paying attention to what they see around them (as you certainly do with your photography and thoughtfulness) are in touch with somewhat Jungian archetypical ideas and symbolism. You saw a white buffalo and were curious enough to look up what it traditionally stands for -- which is entirely appropriate right now and likely to resonate with you and those of us who think about the plight of the earth and the need for awareness.
ReplyDeleteJune -- What an introspective comment. I've always been interested in symbols and archetypes. Awareness is something our culture seems to be slowly losing. So much busyness and speed to everything. No time for many to observe the simple things and think what is happening to Mother Earth. The earth is in trouble. Every time one turns around there is a threat to our environment from corporate degradation. thanks -- barbara
DeleteNice post. I recall a white buffalo born when we lived in WI. There was quite a lot of publicity about the miracle. In fact, I think they named the calf Miracle.
ReplyDeleteNCmountainwoman -- here is a supportive statement of your recollection of the white buffalo born in WI
Delete"In the summer of 1994, . . . the birth of a white buffalo in Jamesville, Wisconsin. White buffaloes are rare, but this one is unique because, as prophesied by the Native American Medicine community, the white buffalo has changed its colors since birth, going from white to black to red to yellow and back to white. Since each color represents one of the four directions--north being white, black representing west, red symbolizing south, and yellow depicting east--this buffalo has great symbolic significance to Native American tribes" source: Native Americans Online.
thanks -- barbara
Thanks! Very interesting. I had not known about the color changes.
DeleteMany of us seem eager for signs of how we will take a turn toward healing the planet and follow
ReplyDelete"the continent’s first inhabitants, as they have been able to live harmoniously with nature for thousands of years."
A good new year to you. Perhaps the white buffalo imagery is one sign to help us turn the corner.
naomi -- This is a difficult path -- our turning toward healing the planet. Until we say no more to oil and other wasteful corporations will we begin to heal. We are up against formidable foes. thanks -- barbara
DeleteSometimes Google cannot handles too much magical thinking--such as what I tried to leave. Loved learning about the white buffalo and where it took my thoughts. A good new year to all of us.
ReplyDeletenaomi -- perhaps. Sometimes I wonder if we are like the metaphoric lemmings following each other over the cliff. Native Americans were here on this continent for so long and did little of the damage that we are experiencing. thanks -- barbara
Deletesnow gorgeous snow!
ReplyDeleteKen Mac -- just what we no longer have today in KY -- in the sixties! -- thanks -- barbara
DeleteLooks like a thin dinosaur head
ReplyDeleteJohn -- Yes, I guess it could be -- it's all in the eye of the beholder -- thanks for your comment -- barbara
DeleteWOW! So we must have a lot of white buffalo up here.
ReplyDeleteBirdman -- You probably do. -- barbara
DeleteHi, I am a new visitor and follower of your blog...I have to say I got lost for awhile exploring your blog...love it.Dee
ReplyDeleteDee -- I thank you for joining up with me. I see you like the back country roads like I do. There are many roads to discover in this area where I always seem to find something to photograph. Thanks for your comment -- will be stopping in to check out your finds -- barbara
DeleteIt took me a few seconds, but I definitely see your white buffalo! Impressive powers of observation (and imagination) - you must have a ball finding shapes in the clouds! :-)
ReplyDeleteLaloofah -- When you were a kid didn't you lie on your back with a friend and find images in the clouds? I did. I have always sought out patterns in objects and nature. Thanks for the nice comment -- barbara
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