Shush - Navajo word meaning Bear. There are many positive connotations of the bear in Native American lore. The bear is respected for its power and strength and also for healing abilities. It is often referred to as a token of good luck and for the Navajos symbolizes the entity of the "Protector". The heartline running through the centre of the bear, through the heart, signifies that what you take from the outside world into your heart molds you to be either good or evil. The heartline also signifies the spiritual breath of the animal. The Apache do not speak to Bear, nor to Snake, nor Owl.