Broken Snowshoe Moon

March is a time of shifting landscapes, where the deep snows of winter begin to soften. In Anishinaabe culture, this moon is called Broken Snowshoe Moon, or Boopoogame Giizis.

The Meaning of Broken Snowshoe Moon

This moon’s name comes from a time when the weight of the season begins to press upon us—when old trails become difficult to navigate, and even strong snowshoes may break under the strain. It is a reminder that while the hardest part of the journey may be behind us, persistence is still needed before the arrival of spring.

For the Anishinaabe, this was a time of both challenge and renewal. Food stores could run low and travel remained difficult. Yet, there was also hope, as longer days and shifting weather signaled the land’s slow awakening. The lessons of this moon teach us that even in hardship, there is growth, and even when the path is uncertain, we can find new ways forward.

I am reminded of the words of Richard Wagamese, an Ojibwe author whose writing carries the wisdom of our people:

“We are not meant to be perfect. We are meant to be whole.”

Ways to Honour the Broken Snowshoe Moon:

• Embrace Adaptability: If you’re facing unexpected challenges, trust in your ability to adapt. Just as a broken snowshoe can be mended or replaced, setbacks often lead to creative solutions.

• Reflect on Your Strength: Think about what has carried you through winter, both physically and emotionally. What lessons have you learned? What resilience have you built?

• Create or Restore: This is a powerful time for making repairs, whether it’s mending clothing, restoring something in your home, or even tending to relationships that need care.

The Broken Snowshoe Moon reminds us that we are nearing the end of winter’s long journey. Though the path may not always be smooth, our strength carries us forward. Trust in the process, and know that renewal is on the horizon.

(This was blog previously shared in my 13 Moons Newsletter in March of 2025)