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The moon and its phases were a natural seasonal marker for the Plains Indians. Symbolically too, moon phases were used to denote important transitions in one’s life. Marriage, for example, is a significant event that literally starts a new life together for two people, and a new moon would represent that beginning point.
The shield’s bird, a messenger of the spirits, delivers a medicine bundle to assure a fruitful and happy life. The braided sweetgrass represents the intertwining of man and woman. The prominent color, green, symbolizes life. Also decorated with goose wing, rooster tail feathers and brass bells.
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