My inspiration for “Kindred Spirits” was drawn from the spiritual bond that Native Americans have always felt with animals. Many Native Americans have looked to the animals for wisdom and direction, watching animals carefully to gain knowledge from the traits observed. Native People listened to the rest of the Earth with an open heart giving voice to the bear, eagle and even the humble mouse, believing in a horizontal arrangement of the universe. Traditional People looked upon the mouse as humble, a pathfinder/explorer, and teacher – an animal of great importance even though small in size. The bear was a model for knowledge of self (hibernation). The buffalo symbolizes wisdom, renewal and personal power based on knowledge. The Northwest coast tribes saw the salmon as forgiving and benevolent – returning to give themselves to them each year despite the humans’ faults. The Eagle was the visionary, seeing the world with clarity, and was also an important connection to the spirit world. The wolf taught cooperation and the value of extended family (protectiveness/fidelity to the tribe.) “The eyes of the wolf and the eyes of the human are the same eyes.”

If you are interested in purchasing this pony, please call the Trail of Painted Ponies President, Rod Barker, at 480-459-5700 or e-mail: rod@trailofpaintedponies.com