Journeys

As I have mentioned before I'm learning to be a shaman. It is more like an apprenticeship than anything else. It also means that my learning experiences is more like a journey than a straight forward education. 

The process that brought me to this point was at times round about and cyclic, but always worth the effort. Now I do not claim to follow precisely a Native American tradition, though I borrow heavily from that wisdom. I have no wish to insult or dishonor any tribe by any ignorance on my part. My ancestry is varied and  I look toward the traditions that they may have used. I also make the effort to actively research and study not only the native traditions, but those of my lineage as well. 

quest

 noun \ˈkwest\

1. an act or instance of seeking: a : pursuit, search b : a chivalrous enterprise in medieval romance usually involving an adventurous journey

I have participated in several quests over the years. These were important journeys for me. Without them, their hardships and discoveries, I would not have reached several goals in my life. I can say that learning to be a shaman has saved my life and my spirit. It is also on these quests I have been deeply inspired by nature around me. 

As an artist, I have struggled with inspiration at times. My particular journey into shamanism is deeply entwined with my art. It is the way I express. I learned early in my journey that art would have a lot to do with my process of becoming a shaman and in how I would serve as a shaman. When I am creating a piece of art, especially art that will have a sacred purpose my focus and intent is deeply important. What will it be for? How will it be used? What energies should it hold? All of these questions are very important. 

Each piece I complete holds a little bit of my energy and spirit, sacred object or not. Sometimes I create an object knowing that it will be going to somebody else. I always feel very strongly about this and give it away freely. I never know if it is appreciated, but I do know that it needs to be in that person's possession. 

King Stag

So in my journey....My Journey to be a shaman, a sacred artist I found myself and my purpose. I found symbols and meanings, the creation and use of those images and symbols to be a powerful force. My journey is not over. I am still walking my path and looking forward to my next quest.