“What does this mean?”

One of the thing that I see often in witchy Facebook groups is the idea of “signs.” When one finds a feather, a rock, hears a bird call, sees fish in natural water, finds a dead [anything] captures a neat image in a fire – it’s not automatically a sign.

The photo that inspired me to write is one where a woman has hands cupped and little baby fish are swimming around her. She asked if it means something. What could it mean? Baby fish happen. Naturally in the water.

Is this a normal occurrence or unusual?

To me, I take something as an omen or a sign only if it is unusual. A dead bird in front of a window, is normal. A dead bee is normal. A feather is usually pretty normal. Fish in water – normal.

Fifteen crows sitting on your front porch? Probably some sort of sign. A nocturnal bird during the day -could be a sign.

What does it mean?

Different things have different symbolism to different people – symbols are funny this way. Symbols tickle our subconscious – some interpretations will be particular only to the person. Others are more archetypal, or can be found just by contemplating the sign/symbols. So, while an outside person can give some idea of common symbolism, it’s really a good idea to contemplate or meditate upon the sign and the symbolism involved.

Danger in over-analyzing signs

When we over analyze a sign or omen and the symbolism involved, we can destroy the simple symbolism. Sometimes what you are meant to see is very simple, and by spending so much time trying to “figure something out” you are missing out on the actual symbolism. In addition, you might be missing out on the experience, itself.

If I’m playing with little baby fish, and I’m spending my time overthinking about what is happening and if it might be an omen, I’m not mindfully embracing the amazing experience the universe has presented to me.

When you experience something abnormal, it’s a good idea to pay attention. Normal things are often normal things. When looking for symbolism in a sign or omen, look within yourself for guidance, not always crowdsourcing- and be careful not to over-analyze.