Image courtesy of Kid’s National Geographic

International Polar Bear Day. Who knew my Gentle Readers that such a day existed?

I have always found bears to be fascinating, as long as they aren’t trying to kill me. A creature that gets to eat everything it can get its paws on, and then sleep the whole winter through? Sign me up. However, Polar Bears do not hibernate. That’s just too bad for them.

Polar Bears are spiritually thought to be a psychopomp. Wow, spell check does not like that word. Anyway, a Psychopomp is like a guide. Their primary function is to escort souls to the afterlife. They also serve as guides through the various transitions of life. The term originates from the Greek words pompos (conductor or guide) and psyche (breath, life, soul, or mind).

As important as spiritual and physical growth is to humans, we could learn a lot about toughness from an animal that thrives in such a harsh environment. Polar Bear mothers shore themselves up in a den of snow/ice for three months when they give birth, surviving and raising their young solely on the fat reserves they managed to store up during their pregnancy. That’s impressive to think of as we consider human pregnancies.

April is going to bring changes to my life that I hope I can be as strong as the Polar Bear to survive. The birth of my second child will be very different than fatherhood to my 11 year old son. Caring for a baby, so fragile and needing of my attention, will change all of my priorities. It is an adventure I cannot wait to transition to.

If you need a strong guide through a transitional period in your life, consider meditating on the majestic Polar Bear. May you find wisdom in their strength. Be strong like Bear my Gentle Readers. Until next time.