Introduction to the Medicine Wheel reminds us that ‘all things are related’
By Suzanne Keeptwo
Tim Yearington, mixed blood of Kitchizibi descent, is inspired by his Algonkin ancestors, spirit guides, and traditional teachers from, but not limited to, the Nipissing and Serpent River First Nations. Personally adhering to the Medicine Wheel Teachings, Tim first discovered the wisdom found in the symbol of the wheel by retreating to the bush.
“I went through a marriage break-up and my career as a commercial artist died. So I went back to what I knew best – the bush. We truly can access the knowledge of our ancestors there, then it’s up to us to take the teachings and actually use them in our normal, everyday reality.”
Although differing First Nations have diverse teachings, the commonalities reflected in the symbol of the four colours has been embraced as a Teaching Tool for many First Peoples across Turtle Island. All things circular have been part of ancient understandings for thousands of years. “In the old days we didn’t call it the medicine wheel. It was just known as the Four Directions, the Four Winds or the Four Spirits in our relative languages”. Indigenous peoples recognized the influences of the rhythms of Mother Earth and how all life forms are interconnected. Life cycles were honored as the times for planting, harvesting, birth, death and rebirth were understood and explained by what the Great Plains Peoples referred to as the Sacred Hoop. Many diverse medicine and holy people have regarded the circle or hoop as sacred since time immemorial and typically reflect it in traditional songs and ceremonies.
The term Medicine Wheel may have originated from a 20th century description of one of the many sacred stone circles formed thousands of years ago atop what is commonly referred to as Medicine Mountain (Wyoming). “The reference to the word medicine implied that it was of religious or sacred significance to Native Americans, in particular the Great Plains People who originally constructed and used it” explains Tim. Medicine is about coming into balance and harmony with those cycles.
“The most powerful introduction to the Medicine Wheel is that ‘All things are related’. This is what the phrase ‘All my relations’ is about. The unity of the whole, all colours, seasons, times of life, etc. and all aspects of one’s self (emotional, physical, spiritual and mental) are “related” to each other – just like family.” The teachings help keep Tim, and others, balanced and humble. “They serve to remind me that I am always learning, to do my best and try to be centred. They constantly remind me that I am a creative “work in progress” and all I need to do is keep trying and use the teachings in a good way.”
Tim loves to share what he has come to know. “My passion is taking people outside on the land, into the wilderness, to explore sacred sites near where I live to share traditional knowledge and stories”. He is also invited to speak at schools and conferences. He sits in circles with Elders, and does ceremonies with, or for, people when requested.
When asked if the Medicine Wheel Teachings are applicable in contemporary times, Tim says “Absolutely. We can use all the inner gifts of our own spirit to do something proactive and positive about our life. We can choose which way we want to be and live our life. If we don’t like something, we have the gifts and abilities to change it. We just need encouragement and courage to do this. If you don’t like laying around in the mud, then get up and walk out of it. No excuses. The medicine wheel is just a tool. It’s a guide for how to bring you back into balance. Another word for balance is harmony. And another word for harmony is peace. Religion isn’t cutting it anymore for many people. The medicine wheel teachings are down to earth and very, very real.”
Suzanne Keeptwo is a freelance writer residing in unsurrendered Algonquin territory.