Turkey ~ Give Away

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Wednesday's message of generosity and service is echoed by today as we're joined by the majestic Turkey, who tells us that generosity is the highest form of service. Giving of our time, energy, money or posessions so that another may succeed is a truly magnificent gift. Turkey advises that now might be the time to get involved with a local charity, to clean out your closets and give away those things that you do not need anymore or to find a way to help others in some small way. Your gift does not need to be large, expensive or extravagant - it just needs to come from your heart!
~ Lady Wolfdreams

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Turkey is actually called the Give-Away Eagle or South Eagle of many Native peoples. The philosophy of give-away was practiced by many tribes. Simply stated, it is the deep and abiding recognition of the sacrifice of both self and others. People in modern society, who have many times more than they need, should study the noble turkey who sacrifices itself so that we may life. In Turkey's death we have our life. Honor Turkey.

Spectators unfamiliar with the cultural phenomenon of the potlach or give-away ceremony are often mystified by it. A tribal member may gladly give away all he or she owns in order to help the people. In present-day urban life, we are taught to acquire to get ahead. The person with the most toys wins the game. In some cultures, no one can win the game unless the whole of the people's needs are met. A person who claims more than his or her share is looked upon as selfish or crazy or both. The poor, the aged, and the feeble have honor. The person who gives away the most and carries the burdens of the people is one of the most respected.

Turkey was the medicine of many saints and mystics. Celebrate if you have Turkey medicine. Your virtues are many. You have transcended self. You act and react on behalf of others. You aspire to help those who need help. This is not out of some sense of self-righteous moralism or religious guilt. Help and sustenance are given by Turkey out of the realization that all life is sacred. It is knowing that the Great Spirit resides within all people. It is an acknowledgement that what you do for others you do for yourself. Turkey medicine rests in true ego, in enlightenment. Doing unto others and feeding the people is the message of all true spiritual systems.

When Turkey appears, you may be being given a gift. This gift could be spiritual, material, or even intellectual. The gift may be great or small, but it is never insignificant. Congratulations! You have just won the lottery. Or the gift may be a beautiful sunset, or the smell of a fragrant flower. On the other hand, you may feel the "spirit of giving" growing within you and wanting you to share with others.

~ From "Medicine Cards" by Jamie Sams & David Carson ~