Okapi totem

The Okapi is found in rain forests of the Congo region and was unknown to science until around 1900. Because of its late discovery, its shy disposition and solitary lifestyle it holds the medicine of elusiveness. It is a member of the giraffe family and those with this totem should also study the giraffe. The giraffe's neck extends into the sky giving it the ability to see into the distant future. The okapi however, has short legs and a short neck and focuses its sight on the present and near future. Clairvoyant abilities are common for those that hold either one of these medicines.

The okapi can help those with this totem understand their present reality and their immediate future. The giraffe however, should be called upon if information relating to the future is needed. Although both the giraffe and the okapi are individual totems they often work as a team when necessary.

The okapi's coat is sleek with a deep brown, almost purple color. Its buttocks, thighs and tops of its forelegs are horizontally striped with black and white and the lower part of its legs are white with black rings above its hooves. These markings are symbolic. The colors black and white are associated with spirit and form, density and light and represent polarity on the earth plane. Those who hold this medicine often carry life lessons relating to polarity. Learning detachment from rigid thinking, set agendas, right or wrong behavior patterns is part of the okapi's teachings.

Okapi's are able to stand in total silence without fear. What they hear increases their perception. Within the silence truth is known. Listening and reacting are two different things. Those with this medicine need to master the art of listening and let go of the need to react.

A master magician the okapi has the ability to move through life unnoticed. Its markings camouflage its presence in the wild. When okapi medicine is fully developed those that hold this totem can slip through life unseen and unheard. If this medicine is underdeveloped a person can appear clumsy, awkward and draw unwanted attention to themselves.

Unique in both its appearance and its habits the okapi "dares us to be different." It asks us to break out of limited reality and explore the unconventional. Entering into a world that is not society's idea of normal serves as a catalyst for growth both in self and in others.