For this prompt, I looked at many animals that I feel are Sovereign. For the 9th, I already did a picture of my cat, so no cats for this prompt. I looked at reindeer cows, honey bees, wasps/hornets, geese, spiders, praying mantis, octopus, bears, and yes swans. I was thinking about animals who aren't shy about their boundaries, who're strong and powerful. I kept going back to swans.
I love swans, Trumpeters and Black Swans are my favorites.
A lot of the time they're associated with nobility, love, beauty, grace, peace, and gentleness. But in some cultures, swans are also associated with power, trickster/shapeshifting, protection, and strength.
All of it Sovereignty.
The Battle Maiden Valkyries are associated with Swans. I think Algiz is also associated with Swans. I decided on the Trumpeter Swan for this prompt. As I worked, I kept thinking about the day that I learned how protective, powerful, and territorial swans can be.
About 16 years ago, on Samhain, during our Handfasting ceremony, our vows were interrupted by a swan attacking one of the photographers down by the pond. He was okay and learned to stay away from the water. Everyone was a little surprised by what happened. Definitely made an already interesting day even more interesting! That's why I decided to make the background in the colors from the handfasting: Apple, Wheat, Pumpkin, Fern, Ivory, and Gold.
Boundaries. Respect. Not just a pretty face.
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Thanks for the support!
Face to the Sun.
Trust in Joy.
Follow the Swans...or maybe dont?
- Priestess Foxlyn