Shattering Stereotypes and Embracing Ancient Wisdom
Myth vs. Reality: Who are the Shamans
In a world that often thrives on labels and stereotypes, Shamans remain one of the most misunderstood groups. Associated with terms like ‘devil worshippers’ these spiritual leaders, in essence, are guides to love, consciousness, and healing. And they tell me that we are all Shamans.
As a child, I was taught that Shamans were evil. Seeking them out, I was warned, would lead me straight to Hell. Since nobody could really tell me exactly where Hell was located or what to expect once I got there, I made an adult decision to spend time among these incredibly gifted men and women. I peeked into their beliefs and practices. What I gained was an expanded perspective about life, God, and existence itself.
Time, Change, and the Cyclical Nature of Existence
Most people on this planet view time as a straight line, always moving forward. Shamans believe in the cyclical nature of time. Their teachings illuminate the transient nature of all things, and how attempts to control or resist change only leads to suffering.
Therefore, Life, to a Shaman, is a constantly flowing river, one that doesn’t force its way through obstacles, but flows around them. To a Shaman, every act, event, or behavior is an opportunity for transcendence—and it’s our choice to treat it as such. Shamans also believe that our fears and constructs, which change with time, create our reality. They claim we humans have always possessed the divine power of the Creator within us.
The Dreams We Live: Illusions and Mind Constructs
One of the most transformative teachings of the Shamans is the idea of life being a series of ‘dreams’ or ‘domestications’. These dreams are the realities we construct for ourselves, the narratives we believe (often false), and the perspectives or identities we fiercely hold onto. Often, we become so attached to our worldviews that we close off our hearts to alternative truths, creating external and internal divisions. We sow discord with others and in our own hearts. In other words, we are desperate that others see our point-of-view at all costs.
The Power of Silence
In a world filled with noise, Shamans emphasize the power of silence. They believe that every person in our life has a lesson to offer or a message we need to hear. By closing our mouths and opening our hearts and ears, we may find wisdom, healing, and connection in unexpected places.
What did you do Today?
I listened to messages brought by the wind
I smelled the sun on my forehead
I heard a coyote sing
I watched the bloom on a tree unfold
I walked with God
I touched a feather
I soared with angels
I opened my heart to peace
I loved without judgment
Today, I lived…
--BA Crisp
Addiction to Suffering: The Great Human Paradox
Despite our professed and collective dreams of happiness and freedom, Shamans say humans, collectively, have an uncanny tendency to sow suffering. Be it political, financial, or religious divides, the undercurrent of most human conflicts is a deep-rooted addiction to drama. Shamans urge us to look beyond these self-imposed barriers of finances, religion, or politics, and deep see divinity in every sentient being.
Transcending Illusions: A Journey to True Freedom
Shamans also frequently emphasize the perils of grounding one’s beliefs in assumptions. To them, real freedom lies in harmonizing the heart and mind, and being as unburdened as a feather carried by the wind. Their teachings encourage individuals to reclaim their power, transform negative energies, and foster self-awareness. For a true Shaman, potions, chants, prayers, spells, and rituals are not actually necessary—but used as aids to dispel doubts, help open our first eye, or to create a bridge between nature and spirit.
Seeing God in All: The Ultimate Shamanic Teaching
Perhaps the most unexpected lesson I learned from the Shamans is the idea that divinity exists everywhere, even in those we consider adversaries. By looking into the eyes of our perceived enemies and recognizing our reflection, we may truly understand the interconnectedness of all beings. This, to the Shamans, is the essence of true spirituality. When I pressed for more information, they told me it’s easy to find God when we look into the eyes of our family or friends. “The more difficult thing to do is humanize your enemy and locate God in their eyes, which is your reflection.”
Embracing the Shamanic Path
Shamans do not identify as masters or gurus. They don’t desire that you follow them. They don’t want you to worship them and they don’t seek celebrity status. But their wisdom may offer each of us an opportunity for greater spiritual understanding and connection with nature. By setting aside preconceived notions and opening my heart to their teachings, I discovered greater healing and spiritual growth.