Fox: Camouflage

The fox, because of its ability to blend into its surroundings, is given the reputation of being sly and cunning. When we call someone "foxy," we are not always being complimentary. We may be accusing them of trickery or dishonesty.

The word cunning, however, comes from the same Old English root as the word, kenning, which means to know, especially as applied to seeing something which isn't immediately visible. This can apply both to the fox's excellent vision and to the ability to anticipate. Fox's most important skill isn't being able to outrun the hounds, but to know in advance when they'll be on the hunt, and then making use of its equally important skill of camouflage.

Fox medicine can be an important skill when it comes to dealing with people. The gift of camouflage can be translated as the ability to stop and view an interpersonal situation with detachment, simply observing with all of one's senses. This especially includes opening up the less obvious senses, such as intuition.

Often the dynamics of a situation may seem obvious, but those who, instead of rushing to judgment, pay attention to both their outer and inner senses, may get an entirely different reading. When the outer situation and your inner senses don't match it is wise to follow the example of Fox, trust your intuition, and lay low.

An important aspect of Fox medicine is that, like Wolf, this animal is both monogamous and very devoted to its young. Many of its clever hunting tactics are designed to bring home food for the helpless kits and the nursing vixen. In like manner, our own alertness, and flexibility can serve more than our individual needs.

Fox is a powerful teacher for those who choose to live their lives consciously and deliberately. When we learn to detach from our surroundings and to observe with all of our senses, we, too, can anticipate and create the future.

Fox is one of the Wild Earth Animal Essences