Sacred Coffee and Open Fire Cooking.

Every Friday evening the Three gather to burn wood, drink the sacred coffee, share in each other's company, and of course talk about other folks.  There has been added another element into the ceremonial progressing's of the evening, that is the cooking of Hotdogs and Brats over an open fire.   This added element brings great joy to the Three and brings about the transcendent effect of a warm happy tummy.  

As discussed in past posts Coffee is truly a sacred thing.  In the language of The People Coffee is created from Wakaliapi, "the sacred bean."  When dried and roasted in the proper manner Wakaliapi is slow brewed into it's proper medicinal form of Pejuta Sapa, "Black Medicine."   The black liquid that enhances the experiences and wakens the minds of many an elderly, as The Three have survived to be, and adult American person.  This fine nation politically as well as Indigenously functions on the wake of this gift of The Great Spirit Grandfather, Pejuta Sapa, The Holy Bean.  The drink from the Heavens.  

Adding the Hot Dogs and Brats to the magic of the evening has enhanced the Power and Medicine that The Three wield during their discussions, merry makings, and gossip intended to share the Healing Energies with the masses.  In Ancient times this is how the news of the day was shared, and would be the old time physicians meetings discussing the psychological and physical wellness of the tribe.    Of course the word Physician isn't quite correct as the old words are different for any of the 500 languages spoken on this continent even up until 150 years ago.  We could say, Sachem, Pejuta Wicaca, Wakan Wicaca, Pejuta Winan, Wakan Winan, Medicine man, Medicine woman, Holy man, Holy woman, what have you.  The languages may be different, however the meanings are profound and to the point.  In today's  expansive world the old Tibetan/Mongolian word, Shaman, is used generically to include all Holistic Healers, and Holy People to include Priests and yes, Physicians.  

This is one of, as in many, reasons The Three gather on Friday's to celebrate the Holy Bean, have the Sacred talk, and now enjoy the Roasting of the Sacred Brat on a stick.  The World is such a Majickal place.  

Peace and Balance,

John

What Is The Shaman?

 

For thousands of years various cultures and societies world wide have had that one individual who would separate themselves from the majority in order to best serve.  These people are given a title, a name with which the rest can identify the individual as a spiritual leader, healer, or intermediary who can interact with the spirit world either through an altered state of consciousness or direct communication in order to address the needs of the community.  These people are the worlds Shaman. 

Regardless of the culture or linguistic group there are several key elements that are common for Shaman world wide.   First the word shaman itself comes from the indigenous peoples of Siberia it is now associated with different cultures of the world including, South America, Africa, Asia, and North America. Over time these practices have woven themselves into the local customs and beliefs creating a rich tapestry of shamanic traditions.  Some of these elements are:

1. The existence of the Shaman, the central figure in shamanistic practices who is considered the guide, healer, or spiritual leader with the ability to communicate with spirits, ancestors, animals, or other supernatural entities acting as a bridge between the physical and spiritual world. 

2. The ability to enter an altered state of consciousness.  Using various techniques the shaman alters his/her consciousness in order to travel the spirit world to receive guidance, healing, or knowledge.  

3. Shamanism is generally considered a nature based practice.  Believing that all beings are connected through nature.  All beings posses spirit energies that can be connected with and honored as a source of wisdom and power.

4. One of the primary roles of the shaman is as a healer.  To heal individuals and communities of physical, emotional, or spiritual elements by using various techniques such as herbal medicine, energy work, and soul retrieval in order to restore balance and well-being. 

5. Shaman use the assistance of spirit guides and allies in the form of power animals, ancestors, or spiritual beings to assist them on their journeys and provide wisdom and protection. 

6. Most shamanistic practices include ceremonies and rituals that help connect the community with the healing.  Each society and culture will have it's own ceremony or ritualistic practices. 

7. Shamanistic practices are deeply connected in communal and community life and shamans play a crucial role in maintaining social cohesion and resolving conflict by maintaining ancestral connection for seeking wisdom and guidance. 

It is important to note that Shamanism varies greatly across different cultures, regions, and the beliefs practiced in each. While the word shamanism is originally from the indigenous people of Siberia it is now a culturally accepted term used world wide to describe these traditions and beliefs with many of the same goals and practices that bind us all together.

Peace and Balance,

John