This moon honors the thimbleberry, a protector of the sacred circle of life. Thimbleberry Moon encourages us to pay attention to Spirit World messages and ancestral wisdom. At Indspire, we believe in nurturing these connections, recognizing that teachings often come in subtle, sacred ways. This is a time to open our hearts to the unseen guidance around us.
As we enter the Thimbleberry Moon, or Datkaagmin, the eighth moon of the year, we are reminded of the delicate balance between protection and vulnerability. Thimbleberries grow in the wild, their soft, velvety fruit nestled within dense thickets of thorny shrubs, making them a hidden treasure, much like the teachings of this moon.
Unlike many berries that grow in the open, thimbleberries are somewhat shy and sheltered—protected by the brambles that surround them.
They grow in places where the earth is wild and untamed, just as our spirits are sometimes hidden in places of growth, healing, and self-discovery.
The Protector’s Way
Thimbleberries teach us about the importance of protection—not only for ourselves but also for the sacred circle of life that surrounds us. The thicket that guards the berry is symbolic of the barriers we place around our hearts to protect ourselves from the harshness of the world. However, there’s also wisdom in knowing when to allow the thicket to open—when to share our truth, our vulnerabilities, and our love.
The moon’s energy invites us to reflect on the ways we protect our families, our communities, and our spirit. How do we nurture those we love, while also respecting their space and independence?
When I think of this moon, I recall the teachings shared by an Elder at a gathering. She said, “In the wild, nothing is without its protector. The trees shelter the birds, the bushes protect the berries, and the spirit guides protect us. But remember, protection is not about locking something away—it’s about creating space for growth and strength.”
These words stuck with me. Protection doesn’t have to be restrictive; it can be about providing a safe space to flourish, to be vulnerable, and to grow. This moon encourages us to consider how we provide such protection—whether it be for the land, for our children, for our elders, or for ourselves.
Finding Sacred Teachings
The thimbleberry is also known as a Spirit berry, carrying powerful teachings from the Spirit World. Just like the berry, which is hidden and protected by its thorns, the wisdom of this moon invites us to look beyond the physical and connect with the more subtle teachings that exist in our surroundings.
I remember one summer night sitting by the fire with a group of Elders. One shared a story that, to this day, I carry with me. She spoke of a time when the ancestors would send visions through dreams, often disguised as simple things—like the way the wind moved through the trees or the way the berries hung low on their vines.
She explained, “In the quiet moments, the Spirit World whispers to us. When you feel protected and hidden, it is the Spirit World showing you the way forward.”
As we honor this moon, it’s a time to deepen our connection to the unseen forces around us—to listen to the subtle messages of the Earth, the sky, and our own spirits.
Nurturing the Sacred Circle
Thimbleberry Moon also calls us to consider the sacred circle of life. This sacred circle exists in all things—the changing of the seasons, the cycles of birth and death, and the interconnectedness of all beings. The thimbleberry, growing in the midst of the wild, yet protected by the thorns, teaches us to value and honor the sacredness of each life, no matter how small or how hidden.
One of the most meaningful teachings I received during this time came from a community Elder. She said:
“When you walk through the thicket, take your time. Don’t rush. Sometimes, the things that seem hardest to reach are the ones with the sweetest rewards.”
This moon invites us to slow down, to recognize the sacredness of all life, and to protect what is important to us—while also allowing ourselves the freedom to discover and grow. We are reminded that protection doesn’t mean isolation, but rather the careful stewardship of what is sacred.
A Time for Quiet Reflection
During Thimbleberry Moon, take time to reflect on the protective roles you play in your life and how you protect your loved ones. Are there ways you can soften your approach, allowing others to share their burdens with you? How can you protect your spirit while also staying open to new experiences?
Consider offering thanks to the thimbleberry, for its protection, its teachings, and its quiet presence in the world. Perhaps you could create a small ceremony in nature, where you thank the land for its gifts and ask for guidance in your personal journey of protection and self-discovery.
In this Thimbleberry Moon, may you walk gently through the wild spaces, protected by the love and teachings of the land. May you learn when to guard your spirit and when to open your heart, and may you always honor the sacred circle of life that binds us all together.
🌿 “Protection isn’t about walls; it’s about understanding the sacredness of all things and knowing when to stand strong and when to let go.” 🌿
