Ode to the Land: Dear Deer

By Kristine Karpinski

I opened the door the other day to two deer standing in the parking lot here, basking in a fleeting ray of sunshine. 

Like us, they seemed to be gathering up the last of the warmth available in the season. With the first frosts creeping in, we find deer are emerging from the fields of the valley and making their way here towards the ridge. It’s a daily and nightly thing now, the soft crunch of leaves and occasional cracking branches beneath hooves as deer rustle through the bush. 

Deer have long been seen as symbols of intuition, grace, and adaptability. It’s often said they teach us that the journey of life is not always predictable; it requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt to the changing energies or seasons. Deer remind us that finding our way involves both trusting our instincts and being mindful of the signs around us. 

They are often considered magical creatures, and leaning into the message of their presence can keep us keen to the magic that surrounds us in every moment if we pay attention.

As I watched the deer hanging out in that slim ray of light, I noticed a third one tucked in at the edge of the forest, less brave at coming out where the sunlight was but wanting to join the others. And I thought I caught a glimpse of a fourth behind that one, a movement deeper in the woods. Tentatively they finally made their way towards the others where the sunlight shone - finding courage in numbers as they got closer.

The deer tell us it’s the season for gathering. 

As temperatures drop, the deer come together in herds, finding safety and warmth in numbers. A highlight of the importance of strength found in unity, and of community and connection during the colder months. 

As I watched all four deer hanging out in that slim ray of light, I felt like I was one of them for a moment. My skin in appreciation of the warmth of the sun and my spirit in appreciation of the company of others. 

Gathering in circles, whether around a fire, a table, or in shared experiences, nurtures relationships and fosters a sense of belonging. 

Just as deer rely on one another for protection and companionship, we too can support each other through the ups and downs. Gatherings at this time of year can become a source of joy, resilience, and warmth, within the unexpected changes of winter. Sudden snowfalls, icy winds, and moments of stark beauty can invite us to use our keen senses like deer and teach us the importance of being ready for the unforeseen.

I appreciated this moment of pause in my day, and just as I was shutting the door to go back inside, I noticed a black squirrel sitting on the edge of a stump close to me, also watching the deer. I realized she must have been there all along having her own thoughts about the deer and the gathering taking place. I took a moment to watch her, and like me, she seemed ready to move on. I watched as she made her way over to the big tree, only to see her join three other black squirrels waiting for her. These four were the last squirrel litter of the season, still hanging out together. It seemed she also recognized the message of deer. 

In this season of cold, let us look to the deer as our guides, embodying the spirit of adaptation and connection as we journey through the winter months together in community.

Kristine hosts a variety of offerings - Sound Nidra, Mystery in Motion, etc. Check them out on our website.