In First Nations culture, the Tree of Life symbolizes the deep interconnection between all living things—the earth, sky, water, and spirit. Its roots represent connection to Mother Earth and ancestral knowledge, while its branches reach toward the Creator and the spirit world. The tree embodies balance, growth, strength, and renewal, reminding people that all life is related and dependent on one another. It is often seen as a sacred symbol of creation, unity, and the continuous cycle of life.
In First Nations culture, the turtle is a sacred symbol of creation, longevity, and stability. Many First Nations tell the story of Turtle Island, where North America was formed on the turtle’s back after the Great Flood. The turtle’s slow, steady nature represents patience, wisdom, and endurance, while its shell symbolizes protection and the cycles of the moon and life. It serves as a reminder of the balance between the physical and spiritual worlds and the importance of living in harmony with the earth.