From Jamie Sams and David Carson’s Medicine Cards.
Racoon, protector of the underdog,
Provider for those who have none.
Do you wear the bandit’s mask
To hide the good deeds that you’ve done?
Teach me to turn away from
Rich rewards or worldly acclaim,
Knowing that my generosity allows
My warrior spirit to be reclaimed.
Racoon medicine teaches us about generosity and caring for others. Racoon Medicine people assist others without allowing them to become victims or dependents.
Racoon teaches us to speak up in defense of another instead of remaining silent when others are gossiping. It may be time to share the bounty of your time, energy, or possessions with the less fortunate.
But remember to help those in need develop their own protector and provider skills.
Honour yourself and others equally. Provide for your own needs, or your well will dry when you choose to give generously.
Be careful that you don’t deny the need to be generous and compassionate with yourself.
If you are feeling drained, it may be because you have given too much and have forgotten to honour your own needs.
Racoon also warms to keep watch for the ‘takers’ who never give back. Keep yourself from feeding others who are too needy or greedy. Balanced Racoon medicine does not waste its energy and generosity on those who refuse to help themselves or are too lazy to contribute to learn self- reliance.