The Lakota Medicine Wheel is a sacred symbol. The symbol for the connection and knowledge of our Earth. Plain tribes use the Medicine Wheel during ceremonies and teachings. All living things are connected on this Earth. Many people may have a different interpretations of the Medicine Wheel and its meaning. Depending on where you were raised and who brought you up, you may have a different understanding of the Medicine Wheel. The Medicine Wheel has an outer circle structure, created to represent the Earth. The lines in the center of the circle running horizontally and vertically are man's sacred path. The crossing of the two lines and meeting in the middle is the center of the Earth where we pray. The feather's at the bottom of the Medicine Wheel are the sign of the great spirit, power over all. Starting first with East, decorated in yellow. Yellow represents spring time, the Earth's renewal period, bringing light to life. A brown eagle representing the totem animal of the East, flying close to the sun. The second section of the Medicine Wheel is the South, represented in red. Red being the sign of summer. When summer is at it's peak, it is fiercely hot. During summer, everyone is at their peak of life. Running at a fast pace, the busy time in our lives. Our south direction animal is the coyote. The coyote being a spirited animal is a perfect animal to represent south. West, in a great color of black, indicates our fall. Gathering for food and shelter during this season. Going into a dark shelter to be still for the winter. That is why black is represented, black like the night. The bear being the totem animal for the west. The grizzly bear being known for it's hibernation tactics, it is still during hibernation but powerful if awoken. White being the perfect color for the North, winter time. Blanketed all in white, frost on all the branches, prepping the Earth for a new beginning. North is the transition period, the final layer of you. North is also represented for giving. Giving of wisdom, and for the giving for others needs. With North being represented for giving, the buffalo is is the perfect animal for it. When killed, the buffalo allows the hunters to use every part of it's body, nothing left behind. Giving the people everything they need to survive. The Medicine Wheel is a guide for the people, a sacred symbol of life's direction. We are all connected on this Earth, and will cross each others path. Each season, direction, and creature connected as one. When following the path Earth created for us, it allows us to follow the cycle that was intended for us. We are all able to shed our past, and start on the new season of our lives.
Author Bio: KayLee Parson is the author of the Oglala Lakota College's, Lakota Medicine Wheel blog. KayLee is a first year student at Oglala Lakota College, but previously attended National American University. KayLee is pursuing her degree in Social Science. KayLee is an adventurous native to Rapid City, SD. Born and raised in Rapid City, she fell in love with the scenery and people. She Enjoys hiking, writing, and being with her family. KayLee is also a lover of arts, poetry, and outdoor activities.