Don't Call Me Riverwolf Anymore!

That's it--I'm so embarrassed by a certain news report that I'm ditching my spirit name, Riverwolf. Why, you ask? What cataclysmic event would cause me to take this drastic action?

Naturally, those media whores Spencer and Heidi Pratt have now adopted Native American spirit names! That's right, the same couple who have so flaunted their "Christianity" that Jesus himself has become an atheist to save face are now calling themselves White Wolf (Heidi) and Running Bear (Spencer).

The whole spectacle has outraged some Native American groups, and I'm right here with them. If I for a moment believed that any of this was sincere, I'd back 'em up--but I don't. I don't know what kind of crazy train these 2 are running, but it is out of control. And if you're scratching your head because you have no idea who I'm talking about--you have been blessed, my child. Take pride in your ignorance!

I'm sure some Native Americans would also have a problem with me calling myself "Riverwolf." However, I'm not claiming it's an authentic Native name of any sort. It simply came to me in a dream, I diligently try to live out what that name symbolizes for me, and I don't go bragging about it to everyone I know! And barely anyone in the "real world" even knows about it. I completely doubt the Pratt's motivations, and it mocks all those of us who have taken similar names as an expression of something we try and live out with integrity every damn day.

And look at me, sitting here trying to justify my name because of Heidi and Spencer! Ack! (But no, I'm really not changing my spirit name because of these 2 goobers.)

Don't Call Me Riverwolf Anymore!

That's it--I'm so embarrassed by a certain news report that I'm ditching my spirit name, Riverwolf. Why, you ask? What cataclysmic event would cause me to take this drastic action?

Naturally, those media whores Spencer and Heidi Pratt have now adopted Native American spirit names! That's right, the same couple who have so flaunted their "Christianity" that Jesus himself has become an atheist to save face are now calling themselves White Wolf (Heidi) and Running Bear (Spencer).

The whole spectacle has outraged some Native American groups, and I'm right here with them. If I for a moment believed that any of this was sincere, I'd back 'em up--but I don't. I don't know what kind of crazy train these 2 are running, but it is out of control. And if you're scratching your head because you have no idea who I'm talking about--you have been blessed, my child. Take pride in your ignorance!

I'm sure some Native Americans would also have a problem with me calling myself "Riverwolf." However, I'm not claiming it's an authentic Native name of any sort. It simply came to me in a dream, I diligently try to live out what that name symbolizes for me, and I don't go bragging about it to everyone I know! And barely anyone in the "real world" even knows about it. I completely doubt the Pratt's motivations, and it mocks all those of us who have taken similar names as an expression of something we try and live out with integrity every damn day.

And look at me, sitting here trying to justify my name because of Heidi and Spencer! Ack! (But no, I'm really not changing my spirit name because of these 2 goobers.)

If I Lived In Bahrain, Would I Be Arrested for Sorcery?

So the Middle Eastern nation of Bahrain has made "sorcery" a crime, although they didn't exactly say how sorcery is described. Except to say it could be anything defined as "paranormal" by scientific and religious beliefs. Um, doesn't that present a problem. I mean, science might say that any religion is in itself "paranormal,"--so by that logic you might be considered a sorcerer for just being a good Muslim. And of course, it's very convenient when one religion has the power to label another set of beliefs "paranormal." After all, Muslims can't prove they're praying to the One True God any more than I prove that the images in my head are really animal totems.

Which brings me back to my question. Yes, I suppose I would be arrested if I lived in Bahrain, performing all my rituals, meditations and such. Ridiculous! Set aside the concept of religious freedom for a moment. Sure, we should all respect each other, but that isn't what bothers me most.

What bothers me most is that all religions and spiritual beliefs can be considered "sorcery" depending on your perspective. And none of it can be proven--not praying to Allah or Jesus or holding ceremonies for Mother Earth or Isis. Personally, I don't think any of it is "real" in the way most people conceive it. Let me explain. Say I decide to "curse" my neighbor because his cat pooped in my flower bed, and so I mix some herbs and potions together and light a candle and say a spell. Honestly, I don't think it has any effect on my neighbor--or his cat--unless that neighbor is aware of my intention. If he is aware, then he might begin to associate my "curse" with some bad luck that comes his way--but did my "curse" really work or was it simply the power of suggestion?

I think prayer is the same way. I think if you know people are praying for you or sending good thoughts or whatever, that makes you feel better. But me sitting in my house praying for people in Africa does no good whatsoever, except maybe to make me more aware of Africa, which might lead me to take real action.

Years ago, I examined my Christian faith and decided it didn't work as advertised. So why bother? But I do like ritual, and I can't shake my spiritual bent, so if I'm going to be all crazy religious, then I should at least get something out of it--and so shamanism and nature-based philosophy works for me. But just because I burn sage and ring chimes doesn't make me Harry Potter. Even if I really believe deep down in my heart that I'm tapping into something mystical or paranormal, that still doesn't make it real. For me, I have to walk that fine line and keep that balance. It keeps me grounded, helps me retain my sense of humor and prevents me from falling right back into some crazy fundie literalism like before.

I know this is just me ranting, but I can't help it. It's just so sad when cultures or nations like Bahrain are so entrenched in their worldview that they cannot see their own folly. European cultures have already been through this, and maybe every culture has to do it in order to evolve. There are true crimes in this world that need to be punished--murder, rape, theft and so on--but "sorcery?"

If I Lived In Bahrain, Would I Be Arrested for Sorcery?

So the Middle Eastern nation of Bahrain has made "sorcery" a crime, although they didn't exactly say how sorcery is described. Except to say it could be anything defined as "paranormal" by scientific and religious beliefs. Um, doesn't that present a problem. I mean, science might say that any religion is in itself "paranormal,"--so by that logic you might be considered a sorcerer for just being a good Muslim. And of course, it's very convenient when one religion has the power to label another set of beliefs "paranormal." After all, Muslims can't prove they're praying to the One True God any more than I prove that the images in my head are really animal totems.

Which brings me back to my question. Yes, I suppose I would be arrested if I lived in Bahrain, performing all my rituals, meditations and such. Ridiculous! Set aside the concept of religious freedom for a moment. Sure, we should all respect each other, but that isn't what bothers me most.

What bothers me most is that all religions and spiritual beliefs can be considered "sorcery" depending on your perspective. And none of it can be proven--not praying to Allah or Jesus or holding ceremonies for Mother Earth or Isis. Personally, I don't think any of it is "real" in the way most people conceive it. Let me explain. Say I decide to "curse" my neighbor because his cat pooped in my flower bed, and so I mix some herbs and potions together and light a candle and say a spell. Honestly, I don't think it has any effect on my neighbor--or his cat--unless that neighbor is aware of my intention. If he is aware, then he might begin to associate my "curse" with some bad luck that comes his way--but did my "curse" really work or was it simply the power of suggestion?

I think prayer is the same way. I think if you know people are praying for you or sending good thoughts or whatever, that makes you feel better. But me sitting in my house praying for people in Africa does no good whatsoever, except maybe to make me more aware of Africa, which might lead me to take real action.

Years ago, I examined my Christian faith and decided it didn't work as advertised. So why bother? But I do like ritual, and I can't shake my spiritual bent, so if I'm going to be all crazy religious, then I should at least get something out of it--and so shamanism and nature-based philosophy works for me. But just because I burn sage and ring chimes doesn't make me Harry Potter. Even if I really believe deep down in my heart that I'm tapping into something mystical or paranormal, that still doesn't make it real. For me, I have to walk that fine line and keep that balance. It keeps me grounded, helps me retain my sense of humor and prevents me from falling right back into some crazy fundie literalism like before.

I know this is just me ranting, but I can't help it. It's just so sad when cultures or nations like Bahrain are so entrenched in their worldview that they cannot see their own folly. European cultures have already been through this, and maybe every culture has to do it in order to evolve. There are true crimes in this world that need to be punished--murder, rape, theft and so on--but "sorcery?"

I'm Buying a New Drum!

I'm excited because I just ordered my first drum! Yeah, some may say that's backwards--How can you be a shaman without a drum?--but then, I also bought a motorcycle helmet before I even had a motorcycle! All in good time, I say. Since I didn't have an actual drum, I've been using CDs and online music for my meditations, which works just fine.

And since I sold my motorcycle, I decided to channel some of that energy (money) into a really nice drum. I've had plenty of opportunities to buy one, but I wanted something special since this will be used not only for personal use but also for (hopefully) public ceremonies. Buying something more mass-produced just didn't feel right. So why not pay a little extra for something more customized?

From a friend's recommendation, I've purchased my drum from The Drum People, out of Alabama. The drum maker is Cherokee/Metis, and he and his wife hand-make all the drums, beaters and storage bags. I was attracted to them because they use reclaimed cedar wood so that living trees are not cut down. Plus there isn't any mass assembly line churning these things out. So far, my experience working with them has been great. They take time to make sure you get what you want, and they have all kinds of ways to customize your drum and any other accessories. Plus, they emphasize the spiritual energy that goes into making and using a drum, which is important to me. Unfortunately, they no longer hand-paint on the drum heads due to a busy workload, but that's fine with me.

I'll let you know when the drum arrives!

I'm Buying a New Drum!

I'm excited because I just ordered my first drum! Yeah, some may say that's backwards--How can you be a shaman without a drum?--but then, I also bought a motorcycle helmet before I even had a motorcycle! All in good time, I say. Since I didn't have an actual drum, I've been using CDs and online music for my meditations, which works just fine.

And since I sold my motorcycle, I decided to channel some of that energy (money) into a really nice drum. I've had plenty of opportunities to buy one, but I wanted something special since this will be used not only for personal use but also for (hopefully) public ceremonies. Buying something more mass-produced just didn't feel right. So why not pay a little extra for something more customized?

From a friend's recommendation, I've purchased my drum from The Drum People, out of Alabama. The drum maker is Cherokee/Metis, and he and his wife hand-make all the drums, beaters and storage bags. I was attracted to them because they use reclaimed cedar wood so that living trees are not cut down. Plus there isn't any mass assembly line churning these things out. So far, my experience working with them has been great. They take time to make sure you get what you want, and they have all kinds of ways to customize your drum and any other accessories. Plus, they emphasize the spiritual energy that goes into making and using a drum, which is important to me. Unfortunately, they no longer hand-paint on the drum heads due to a busy workload, but that's fine with me.

I'll let you know when the drum arrives!

How to Look Really Smart and Identify that Bird Feather You Found

Don't have time to become a master ornithologist in your spare time or wade into the marshes every weekend with your local bird club? No sweat, just check out the Feather Atlas, from the National Fish & Wildlife Forensics Lab. It's really easy to use--if I can do it, you can, too!

I found 2 different feathers recently and wondered which birdies had lost them. You never know what you might learn by picking up a feather and studying the bird. Could be your bird totem, or maybe that feather has appeared to signal a new lesson. Sure, I had delusions of spending all my extra time with binoculars and a bird book, but my attempts so far have been frustrating and time-consuming. (Those birds need to sit STILL until I find the right page, dammit!)

By using the Feather Atlas, I discovered that I had correctly identified one feather (a blue jay!), and the 2nd one turned out to be from a mourning dove. Do these feathers and their birds have something to teach me? Well, now that I know the bird, I can meditate on the symbolism, and I'll let you know!

How to Look Really Smart and Identify that Bird Feather You Found

Don't have time to become a master ornithologist in your spare time or wade into the marshes every weekend with your local bird club? No sweat, just check out the Feather Atlas, from the National Fish & Wildlife Forensics Lab. It's really easy to use--if I can do it, you can, too!

I found 2 different feathers recently and wondered which birdies had lost them. You never know what you might learn by picking up a feather and studying the bird. Could be your bird totem, or maybe that feather has appeared to signal a new lesson. Sure, I had delusions of spending all my extra time with binoculars and a bird book, but my attempts so far have been frustrating and time-consuming. (Those birds need to sit STILL until I find the right page, dammit!)

By using the Feather Atlas, I discovered that I had correctly identified one feather (a blue jay!), and the 2nd one turned out to be from a mourning dove. Do these feathers and their birds have something to teach me? Well, now that I know the bird, I can meditate on the symbolism, and I'll let you know!

Look Ma--I'm Praying on TV!

Can't believe I hadn't posted about this yet, but with being sick and all, it somehow slipped through the cracks. So last night, yours truly delivered the invocation for a meeting of our esteemed local county commissioners! And I slipped in a little shamanic juju without anyone realizing it!

One of the administrators said she found my minister web site, therefore the invitation. Unlike some places around the country, we still open each county meeting with prayer (this is the Bible belt, after all). Now, there are some neighboring counties where this practice is under challenge, but locally, no such problems. Naturally, I worried about what to say. Do I shake my rattle and dance a jig around the podium while invoking nature spirits? Do I blow my conch horn and really freak everyone out? Will something I say set off the Christians on yet another "witch hunt?" And--most important--what do I wear?

As an interfaith minister, these aren't easy questions to answer. I knew I wanted some sort of reference to nature and I wanted some form of shamanic elements, too. After researching online, I found part of a prayer that I liked, and then I added my own touches. So instead of praying to Jesus, I invoked the "eternal and unseen spirit of the universe." I thought that was nonspecific enough while also expressing my own opinion that spirit does not take the form of a bearded man in the sky.

I also used the words "sacred circle" to hint at Native American and pagan influences. To honor the 4 directions, I talked about drawing a great circle around the county, mentioning real towns that roughly corresponded to east, south, west, north. The commissioners and visitors might not realize it, but they had just been included in a magickal circle--so let the positive energy flow!

Also, with the spring equinox only a few days away, I mentioned balance and harmony, and tied this into the business of the county. I added a few more nods to taxes, bonds and other such glamour; after all, it's a county meeting, which is what the prayer is supposed to focus on.

What did I wear? Well, my teacher likes to say that one way shamans can "shape shift" is by understanding which mask to wear in which situation. In other words, a kilt and face paint may not be appropriate at the county courthouse! So I decided to rock the suit and bow tie. See, I think that if you sneak up on people with some of this alternative spiritual stuff because you present a more familiar image, then they're likely to get your message. And besides, it was on TV! Only the local cable access channel, but hey--who knows who was watching and may have been touched by something I said. Sure, the fundies may have been puzzled by the lack of "Jesus" every 5 words, but my hope is that my focus on what unites us rather than what divides us got past all that.

Oh yeah, and I included a nod to "Battlestar Galactica," too! Wonder if any one caught that? "So say we all!"

Look Ma--I'm Praying on TV!

Can't believe I hadn't posted about this yet, but with being sick and all, it somehow slipped through the cracks. So last night, yours truly delivered the invocation for a meeting of our esteemed local county commissioners! And I slipped in a little shamanic juju without anyone realizing it!

One of the administrators said she found my minister web site, therefore the invitation. Unlike some places around the country, we still open each county meeting with prayer (this is the Bible belt, after all). Now, there are some neighboring counties where this practice is under challenge, but locally, no such problems. Naturally, I worried about what to say. Do I shake my rattle and dance a jig around the podium while invoking nature spirits? Do I blow my conch horn and really freak everyone out? Will something I say set off the Christians on yet another "witch hunt?" And--most important--what do I wear?

As an interfaith minister, these aren't easy questions to answer. I knew I wanted some sort of reference to nature and I wanted some form of shamanic elements, too. After researching online, I found part of a prayer that I liked, and then I added my own touches. So instead of praying to Jesus, I invoked the "eternal and unseen spirit of the universe." I thought that was nonspecific enough while also expressing my own opinion that spirit does not take the form of a bearded man in the sky.

I also used the words "sacred circle" to hint at Native American and pagan influences. To honor the 4 directions, I talked about drawing a great circle around the county, mentioning real towns that roughly corresponded to east, south, west, north. The commissioners and visitors might not realize it, but they had just been included in a magickal circle--so let the positive energy flow!

Also, with the spring equinox only a few days away, I mentioned balance and harmony, and tied this into the business of the county. I added a few more nods to taxes, bonds and other such glamour; after all, it's a county meeting, which is what the prayer is supposed to focus on.

What did I wear? Well, my teacher likes to say that one way shamans can "shape shift" is by understanding which mask to wear in which situation. In other words, a kilt and face paint may not be appropriate at the county courthouse! So I decided to rock the suit and bow tie. See, I think that if you sneak up on people with some of this alternative spiritual stuff because you present a more familiar image, then they're likely to get your message. And besides, it was on TV! Only the local cable access channel, but hey--who knows who was watching and may have been touched by something I said. Sure, the fundies may have been puzzled by the lack of "Jesus" every 5 words, but my hope is that my focus on what unites us rather than what divides us got past all that.

Oh yeah, and I included a nod to "Battlestar Galactica," too! Wonder if any one caught that? "So say we all!"

Hawaii Saved from Tsunami by Waves of Shamanic Energy!

It's almost like "Wonder Twin Powers--Activate!" Well, not exactly. But launching from my last post, here's something else that's stuck in my craw.

Right after the earthquake struck Chile this past weekend, I was watching the unfolding news while also checking my email (I'm such the multitasker). News reports were predicting a possible major tsunami headed across the Pacific, potentially hitting Hawaii. Given my skepticism about praying or otherwise affecting the outcome of things like this, I could only watch. That may sound harsh, but--well, that is the nature of life. We may not like it, but we humans are often powerless, especially in the face of nature, whether it takes the form of major storms or some virus taking over our bodies. We like to think it doesn't work that way--but when has it ever been any different? Of course, all our religions and spiritual traditions teach that if you pray just right or dance in a circle or sacrifice the prettiest virgin, then *poof!* all is well!

Shamanic traditions are full of this sort of thing, too. Contrary to what you might think, I don't believe that shaking a bone is going to halt a hurricane any more than praying to Jesus. I'm attracted to shamanism because I think it has wisdom that can help us powerless humans learn to live with things as they are. Instead of resisting snowstorms and hurricanes and illnesses, how can we adapt, learn from these natural occurrences--and survive? I think most of how we interact with the wider world is based on illusion, and I think shamanism can help shatter those illusions. This means, unfortunately, that floods will come, people will get sick and die, earthquakes will rattle our homes and brains--why should it be any different? The expectation that it should be different is what drives our panic, our suffering, and I think if we can let that go, we can live happier lives, for as long as we have them.

But back to my story. So I opened an email message from the man who led the shamanic mystery school I attended recently--and I was truly disappointed. In the message, he asked us to send "shamanic energy" out to stop the tsunami from striking Hawaii. I respect this man on many levels, but I think he's wrong on this. It bothered me for several reasons. First, if it's possible to do this, then we're really no different than Pat Robertson when he talks of moving hurricanes away from a city--or when he says God sent another storm to punish America for homosexuality. Second, there are lots of other little islands out there in the Pacific, most not as prepared as Hawaii would be. Hawaii is one of my teacher's favorite spots, but it would have been more, I don't know, "loving" of him to include the entire Pacific. And besides, even if we could "protect" Hawaii, wouldn't it just deflect the waves to neighboring islands, endangering them even more? I mean, I at least believe that energy has to GO somewhere.

Then, once the threat had passed, another email went out, thanking us all for protecting Hawaii. Seriously? How about an email asking us to send some kind of help to those poor people in Chile? You'd think if shamanism really works in this way, then some kind of sixth sense would have awakened us in the middle of the night--just like dogs often bark before a quake--so that we could all synchronize our energy fields and shut that quake down. But no, that didn't happen. Chile split open. What's the point of preventing a tsunami if you can't stop an 8.8 earthquake? And it's so simple-minded to say, when things go as we hope, "Look, we saved Hawaii!" But what if it had turned out differently? What would we say then?

I'm glad a tsunami didn't inundate Hawaii or Tahitit or the Marquesas or Easter Island--but I think it had more to do with tectonic plates and ocean floors and waves and even the tug of our own moon than a handful of people having nice thoughts. I'd like to believe things like this are possible. It's just that I've never seen it happen. Not as a Christian way back when and not as a shaman now. The problem here, again, is power. I don't believe being a Christian makes you God's favorite, who then works powerful things on your behalf. I don't believe shamanism gives you special powers, either, over nature or people or things. The only power we can ever achieve, regardless of our belief system, is power over ourselves.

When empowered, we can help those injured in the Chilean earthquake rebuild their lives, or we might work together to improve seismic monitoring technology in the Pacific. We might be empowered to improve building codes and construction technology or evacuation procedures. And we might comfort someone who lost a relative or their home, helping them grieve and helping them find closure. We might also help them to remember that all of this is part of life, part of the world we live in--and it's still good. Shaking our fists makes no difference, nor do futile displays of invoking gods, chanting or praying, or beaming thoughts. Yet, this does not fill me with despair. That's what I want--to see the truth, to shatter all the illusions and still be filled with joy. That is freedom. That is spirit. And that makes life worth living no matter what happens to us.

Hawaii Saved from Tsunami by Waves of Shamanic Energy!

It's almost like "Wonder Twin Powers--Activate!" Well, not exactly. But launching from my last post, here's something else that's stuck in my craw.

Right after the earthquake struck Chile this past weekend, I was watching the unfolding news while also checking my email (I'm such the multitasker). News reports were predicting a possible major tsunami headed across the Pacific, potentially hitting Hawaii. Given my skepticism about praying or otherwise affecting the outcome of things like this, I could only watch. That may sound harsh, but--well, that is the nature of life. We may not like it, but we humans are often powerless, especially in the face of nature, whether it takes the form of major storms or some virus taking over our bodies. We like to think it doesn't work that way--but when has it ever been any different? Of course, all our religions and spiritual traditions teach that if you pray just right or dance in a circle or sacrifice the prettiest virgin, then *poof!* all is well!

Shamanic traditions are full of this sort of thing, too. Contrary to what you might think, I don't believe that shaking a bone is going to halt a hurricane any more than praying to Jesus. I'm attracted to shamanism because I think it has wisdom that can help us powerless humans learn to live with things as they are. Instead of resisting snowstorms and hurricanes and illnesses, how can we adapt, learn from these natural occurrences--and survive? I think most of how we interact with the wider world is based on illusion, and I think shamanism can help shatter those illusions. This means, unfortunately, that floods will come, people will get sick and die, earthquakes will rattle our homes and brains--why should it be any different? The expectation that it should be different is what drives our panic, our suffering, and I think if we can let that go, we can live happier lives, for as long as we have them.

But back to my story. So I opened an email message from the man who led the shamanic mystery school I attended recently--and I was truly disappointed. In the message, he asked us to send "shamanic energy" out to stop the tsunami from striking Hawaii. I respect this man on many levels, but I think he's wrong on this. It bothered me for several reasons. First, if it's possible to do this, then we're really no different than Pat Robertson when he talks of moving hurricanes away from a city--or when he says God sent another storm to punish America for homosexuality. Second, there are lots of other little islands out there in the Pacific, most not as prepared as Hawaii would be. Hawaii is one of my teacher's favorite spots, but it would have been more, I don't know, "loving" of him to include the entire Pacific. And besides, even if we could "protect" Hawaii, wouldn't it just deflect the waves to neighboring islands, endangering them even more? I mean, I at least believe that energy has to GO somewhere.

Then, once the threat had passed, another email went out, thanking us all for protecting Hawaii. Seriously? How about an email asking us to send some kind of help to those poor people in Chile? You'd think if shamanism really works in this way, then some kind of sixth sense would have awakened us in the middle of the night--just like dogs often bark before a quake--so that we could all synchronize our energy fields and shut that quake down. But no, that didn't happen. Chile split open. What's the point of preventing a tsunami if you can't stop an 8.8 earthquake? And it's so simple-minded to say, when things go as we hope, "Look, we saved Hawaii!" But what if it had turned out differently? What would we say then?

I'm glad a tsunami didn't inundate Hawaii or Tahitit or the Marquesas or Easter Island--but I think it had more to do with tectonic plates and ocean floors and waves and even the tug of our own moon than a handful of people having nice thoughts. I'd like to believe things like this are possible. It's just that I've never seen it happen. Not as a Christian way back when and not as a shaman now. The problem here, again, is power. I don't believe being a Christian makes you God's favorite, who then works powerful things on your behalf. I don't believe shamanism gives you special powers, either, over nature or people or things. The only power we can ever achieve, regardless of our belief system, is power over ourselves.

When empowered, we can help those injured in the Chilean earthquake rebuild their lives, or we might work together to improve seismic monitoring technology in the Pacific. We might be empowered to improve building codes and construction technology or evacuation procedures. And we might comfort someone who lost a relative or their home, helping them grieve and helping them find closure. We might also help them to remember that all of this is part of life, part of the world we live in--and it's still good. Shaking our fists makes no difference, nor do futile displays of invoking gods, chanting or praying, or beaming thoughts. Yet, this does not fill me with despair. That's what I want--to see the truth, to shatter all the illusions and still be filled with joy. That is freedom. That is spirit. And that makes life worth living no matter what happens to us.

Reiki, Prayer, Energy Work: Just Whistling in the Wind?

Been sick the last several days, coughing til my head hurts, blowing my nose raw and so on. No fever, fortunately--so I think I'll live. But this little physical ailment has got me thinking again, which we all know is dangerous.

Several of my friends have said they would send "healing energy" my way (some are Reiki practitioners), or that they would pray for me, or hold me in "the light" or even break out the crystal bowls and tone for my recovery. It's great to have friends--but does any of this shit work? I mean, it's been almost a week and I'm still sick!

Now, this could indicate any number of things. One, I'm impatient. Two, my symptoms would've been much, much worse without all that healing energy. Or three, no, none of that crap works but it makes us puny humans feel like we can make a difference when the big, bad world unleashes itself on us.

Truth is, you can't tell. No way, no how. Maybe things like prayer help, but there isn't any way to know. You gotta take it on faith. And maybe, faith in and of itself, makes a difference and can actually contribute toward you simply feeling better, which is certainly part of any recovery process. There are even people researching the effects of these methods.

But call me skeptical. It was this sort of thing that caused me to wave bye-bye to Christianity about 6 years ago. I had prayed for all kinds of things but realized I could never say for sure if anyone was listening or acting on my behalf. And really, this is the same thing. So yes, you gotta have faith. But having faith still doesn't make something true. Because if faith alone is enough--then WHY hasn't this guy below knocked on my door yet??

Reiki, Prayer, Energy Work: Just Whistling in the Wind?

Been sick the last several days, coughing til my head hurts, blowing my nose raw and so on. No fever, fortunately--so I think I'll live. But this little physical ailment has got me thinking again, which we all know is dangerous.

Several of my friends have said they would send "healing energy" my way (some are Reiki practitioners), or that they would pray for me, or hold me in "the light" or even break out the crystal bowls and tone for my recovery. It's great to have friends--but does any of this shit work? I mean, it's been almost a week and I'm still sick!

Now, this could indicate any number of things. One, I'm impatient. Two, my symptoms would've been much, much worse without all that healing energy. Or three, no, none of that crap works but it makes us puny humans feel like we can make a difference when the big, bad world unleashes itself on us.

Truth is, you can't tell. No way, no how. Maybe things like prayer help, but there isn't any way to know. You gotta take it on faith. And maybe, faith in and of itself, makes a difference and can actually contribute toward you simply feeling better, which is certainly part of any recovery process. There are even people researching the effects of these methods.

But call me skeptical. It was this sort of thing that caused me to wave bye-bye to Christianity about 6 years ago. I had prayed for all kinds of things but realized I could never say for sure if anyone was listening or acting on my behalf. And really, this is the same thing. So yes, you gotta have faith. But having faith still doesn't make something true. Because if faith alone is enough--then WHY hasn't this guy below knocked on my door yet??

Shaman Snapshot: Russia

I just stumbled on this photo of a shaman in, I believe, the region of Siberia. Now that is some serious shaman drag! The photo was attached to a story about how someone in Russia (back in 2009) was looking to elect a "supreme shaman" by vote in order to help unify various groups and fight against repression. Interesting. Of course, many folks--and shamans--weren't too happy about it.

This story has a little more on the reasoning behind the vote idea and what Russian shamans face in their daily lives. I did look but couldn't find a story on the actual outcome of the vote.

And below is a photo of Russian shaman Filipp Ardeyev.

Shaman Snapshot: Russia

I just stumbled on this photo of a shaman in, I believe, the region of Siberia. Now that is some serious shaman drag! The photo was attached to a story about how someone in Russia (back in 2009) was looking to elect a "supreme shaman" by vote in order to help unify various groups and fight against repression. Interesting. Of course, many folks--and shamans--weren't too happy about it.

This story has a little more on the reasoning behind the vote idea and what Russian shamans face in their daily lives. I did look but couldn't find a story on the actual outcome of the vote.

And below is a photo of Russian shaman Filipp Ardeyev.

Want to Sell Your House Quick for Top Dollar? Hire a Shaman!

Yes, the headline is meant to be sarcastic. I'd like to get your opinion on something, and I suppose it can apply to shamanism or to any spiritual path. In my recent post about shamanic expressions at the Vancouver Olympics, a news story described how a shaman blessed the sleds of the skeleton team. And this bothered me. I wondered, is it "right" or spiritually appropriate to do something like this? I hear about this more and more, individuals who call themselves a shaman offering various blessings on events, homes and objects, with what seems like a specific goal in mind. Does that de-value the practice somehow?

As you may know, I now offer home blessings myself for those who have recently bought a new home. I go in, clear out the old and usher in the new, and work with the family to create the kind of loving environment they truly want. But when a friend suggested that I bless her house to help it sell, I balked. Then someone else suggested I offer my services to local Realtors in order to move houses. My gut said no. So then I hear about this Canadian shaman blessing sleds, which I assuming was to help propel the athletes to Olympic glory.

Now, there isn't anything wrong with winning an Olympic medal or selling a house. But it feels different when I bless a home somehow has just purchased or moved into. My intention is to help them bring to life, to manifest, the kind of home they want--not with things but with love, warmth and safety. But blessing a house so its sells is very specific. What if it takes 1 year to sell instead of 1 month--does that mean the blessing didn't "work?" What if the seller doesn't get their ideal selling price--did it not "work?" When it comes to outcomes like these, people have all kinds of expectations. And I believe strongly that something can "work" even when it turns out completely opposite from how you hoped or intended.

It could be that some of these opportunities are coming my way in order to simply help me work out in my own mind how I feel about these things. Which is good. Part of my problem with some of these requests is that they remind me of some Christians who believe they can pray their way to a great parking spot, an "A" on a test or into the arms of their one true love. That always sickened me. Spirituality--Christian, shaman or whatver--isn't a magic trick. It isn't a switch you flip in order to get something.

I would never say this out loud to anyone who I turned down for a blessing, but it seems to me that their priorities are misplaced. Are they just interested in selling the house for as much money as possible, or do they truly want to tap into the subtle energies present in the home? If a house doesn't sell, I believe shamanism would point us toward personal patience. We might ask questions like: Whose advice about the selling price have I ignored? How can I better present my home so it will sell? Or, is the universe telling me to stay put and not sell? What can be learned from this experience? Shamanism isn't about instant results, but to me it's about sifting through the layers of everyday life for the greater meaning and purpose. Shamanism doesn't "care" whether the house sells or not, but rather it is here to teach us about ourselves and our world.

So maybe I've answered my own questions! Writing does seem to help me sort it out. So--thoughts on the matter anyone?

Want to Sell Your House Quick for Top Dollar? Hire a Shaman!

Yes, the headline is meant to be sarcastic. I'd like to get your opinion on something, and I suppose it can apply to shamanism or to any spiritual path. In my recent post about shamanic expressions at the Vancouver Olympics, a news story described how a shaman blessed the sleds of the skeleton team. And this bothered me. I wondered, is it "right" or spiritually appropriate to do something like this? I hear about this more and more, individuals who call themselves a shaman offering various blessings on events, homes and objects, with what seems like a specific goal in mind. Does that de-value the practice somehow?

As you may know, I now offer home blessings myself for those who have recently bought a new home. I go in, clear out the old and usher in the new, and work with the family to create the kind of loving environment they truly want. But when a friend suggested that I bless her house to help it sell, I balked. Then someone else suggested I offer my services to local Realtors in order to move houses. My gut said no. So then I hear about this Canadian shaman blessing sleds, which I assuming was to help propel the athletes to Olympic glory.

Now, there isn't anything wrong with winning an Olympic medal or selling a house. But it feels different when I bless a home somehow has just purchased or moved into. My intention is to help them bring to life, to manifest, the kind of home they want--not with things but with love, warmth and safety. But blessing a house so its sells is very specific. What if it takes 1 year to sell instead of 1 month--does that mean the blessing didn't "work?" What if the seller doesn't get their ideal selling price--did it not "work?" When it comes to outcomes like these, people have all kinds of expectations. And I believe strongly that something can "work" even when it turns out completely opposite from how you hoped or intended.

It could be that some of these opportunities are coming my way in order to simply help me work out in my own mind how I feel about these things. Which is good. Part of my problem with some of these requests is that they remind me of some Christians who believe they can pray their way to a great parking spot, an "A" on a test or into the arms of their one true love. That always sickened me. Spirituality--Christian, shaman or whatver--isn't a magic trick. It isn't a switch you flip in order to get something.

I would never say this out loud to anyone who I turned down for a blessing, but it seems to me that their priorities are misplaced. Are they just interested in selling the house for as much money as possible, or do they truly want to tap into the subtle energies present in the home? If a house doesn't sell, I believe shamanism would point us toward personal patience. We might ask questions like: Whose advice about the selling price have I ignored? How can I better present my home so it will sell? Or, is the universe telling me to stay put and not sell? What can be learned from this experience? Shamanism isn't about instant results, but to me it's about sifting through the layers of everyday life for the greater meaning and purpose. Shamanism doesn't "care" whether the house sells or not, but rather it is here to teach us about ourselves and our world.

So maybe I've answered my own questions! Writing does seem to help me sort it out. So--thoughts on the matter anyone?

A River Runs Through My Life

 

The creek in Latham Grove, photographed in summer 2009

Funny how we overlook themes or connections--streams, if you will--in our lives. Then they sneak up on us and say, "Duh--hello!" That happened to me this morning on my walk. A large creek runs through Latham Grove, where I live, flowing north through the city until it empties into a larger river outside of town. The creek is one reason why I moved here, but it wasn't until about 30 minutes ago that I remembered an older connection I have to this creek.

It shouldn't be surprising, since I've always been drawn to water. Lakes in my childhood, an ocean and a major river while in college in Florida, the creek in Brandtlund Grove and now here.

My little revelation just hit me out of the blue, as these things do. The creek is part of 2 city parks, and my first connection emerged not quite 20 years ago when I got my first real job here. I had an hour commute since I was living elsewhere, and since I had little money, I would pack my lunch and leave the office to get some air. Just a few blocks away was this park and creek, what I now call Latham Grove. I could park my car and see the creek and lots of green space. I would eat, read and think. Now that I think back, it was a difficult time in my life since I was just coming to terms with being gay. This park--this creek--provided safety and rest along my spiritual journey.

I probably visited the park only for a year, maybe two. Now here I am again. I can walk from my apartment all the way to where I once parked my car to eat, read and think. I can look out my front upstairs window and see this same creek as it makes it way north. Once again it's a place of safety, rest and healing. So I stood by the creek this morning, taking this all in and feeling grateful, so grateful.

A river runs through my life.

With that in mind, here's "River of Love" by Sam Phillips, a favorite from my college days.

A River Runs Through My Life

 

The creek in Latham Grove, photographed in summer 2009

Funny how we overlook themes or connections--streams, if you will--in our lives. Then they sneak up on us and say, "Duh--hello!" That happened to me this morning on my walk. A large creek runs through Latham Grove, where I live, flowing north through the city until it empties into a larger river outside of town. The creek is one reason why I moved here, but it wasn't until about 30 minutes ago that I remembered an older connection I have to this creek.

It shouldn't be surprising, since I've always been drawn to water. Lakes in my childhood, an ocean and a major river while in college in Florida, the creek in Brandtlund Grove and now here.

My little revelation just hit me out of the blue, as these things do. The creek is part of 2 city parks, and my first connection emerged not quite 20 years ago when I got my first real job here. I had an hour commute since I was living elsewhere, and since I had little money, I would pack my lunch and leave the office to get some air. Just a few blocks away was this park and creek, what I now call Latham Grove. I could park my car and see the creek and lots of green space. I would eat, read and think. Now that I think back, it was a difficult time in my life since I was just coming to terms with being gay. This park--this creek--provided safety and rest along my spiritual journey.

I probably visited the park only for a year, maybe two. Now here I am again. I can walk from my apartment all the way to where I once parked my car to eat, read and think. I can look out my front upstairs window and see this same creek as it makes it way north. Once again it's a place of safety, rest and healing. So I stood by the creek this morning, taking this all in and feeling grateful, so grateful.

A river runs through my life.

With that in mind, here's "River of Love" by Sam Phillips, a favorite from my college days.