Legend of the dancing bear (Inuit)

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These carefully balanced creatures suggest the angakop poised between heaven and earth, ready for transformation and flight. a shamanic bear can be recognized by a short thick neck, the one remaining sign of human identity. The Inuit believe that after death they return as an animal... thus continuing the chain of life. The bear represents the "king" of the Arctic animal kingdom so to return as a polar bear is the most favoured choice. Returning as a polar bear, the Inukshuk is happy and dances to show pleasure and joy. 

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