Mishipeshu

Mishipeshu is the underwater creature that looks like a panther-dragon that lives in Lake Superior. The image of a feline shape with horns, palmed paws and scale covered dragon tail is featured in pictographs in the region. A fascinating artist, Ellen Van Laar, told us all about him. We went to visit her yesterday at her studio on the shore of Lake Superior north of Pancake Bay to thank her for connecting me with my boat captain. Mishipeshu, according to Ojibway legend, has the power to create waves and wind. Ellen says you have to stare him down to get his respect. Furthermore, he symbolizes fear of the unknown under the surface, in other words, unconscious fears. She suggested we do a little homage service to him with traditional symbols of copper and tobacco. After my bad luck in California, I was ready to dive into local traditions. 

I think that this legend is a great metaphor for life, staring down your conscious and unconscious fears.