Thunderbird
The keeper of thunder
Nature of the Thunderbird
The Thunderbird lives in the stories of many Indigenous peoples of North America – on the Northwest Coast as well as on the Plains. When it beats its wings, thunder rolls; when it opens its eyes, lightning flashes. On the totem poles of the Northwest Coast it often sits at the very top, wings spread wide. The stories belong to the peoples who tell them – what is written here is only a respectful view from outside.
Inner attitude
The Thunderbird is mighty and yet not destructive. It brings the rain that nourishes the land. Its power cleanses: after the storm the air is clear.
The essential qualities
- powerful
- cleansing
- majestic
- protective
- renewing
It reminds us that storms, too, bring life.
Meaning
The Thunderbird appears when something has been building up inside you for a long time. It invites you to let the tension release – like a thunderstorm that clears the air. Afterwards things may become quiet and clear again.
Voice of the being
«Let the thunder roll. Afterwards the air is clear.»
Encounter & working together
You meet the Thunderbird when a thunderstorm is coming – from a safe shelter, at a window or under a roof. Listen to the thunder and feel what moves within you along with it.
Pay attention to
- where something has built up inside you
- where a clarifying word is due
- where something new wants to grow after the storm
The Thunderbird works when you are ready to let the old be cleansed.
Essence
I let go of the tension and breathe the clear air afterwards.
