Introduction: Understanding Shamanism/ xv

us, and initiate us.

We are Aquarian shamans. We came into this Earth Walk ready
to reconnect humankind and Nature. We were born with abilities
barely dreamed of by the shamans of old. We are here to reawaken
the shamanic consciousness of humankind. This consciousness lies
deep within us all, sleeping fitfully in the midst of a nightmare of dis­
connection. It has already awakened in many of us. It will continue to
awaken in many more. Each person who awakens his own shamanic
consciousness awakens those of others-without a sound, without a
fuss. That is still another wisdom of shamanism.
In the wheels within wheels within wheels, which is the universe
ofthe shaman, each new wheel turning is felt. Just by staying centered in
our own power and riding the wheels of Self, Spirit, and Nature all
alone, we can deepen all of humankind's connection to the shamanic
energies. This is an old truth and an old choice of many shamans who
chose to live apart from others. This is a choice we have today as we
begin to walk on the shamanic path.
We can choose the isolation of the shamans of old, if that is how
our inner wisdom guides us. We may also choose the path of the
medicine person who dwells in the center of the community she
serves. In this time of blending, we may exercise our rights as Aquarians
and create our own role on the shamanic path. We may bring the
deep inner focus of the shaman together with the shared outward
focus of the medicine person. We may create Aquarian shamanism.
That is our choice. We live in a time of conscious choice.
The gifts of Nature and Spirit are available to everyone. Resources
abound to help you on your own shamanic path. Seek the information
and wisdom you need from teachers in all the worlds of Nature. Usten
to the wisdom of your inner council. Follow your heart and stay
centered in your personal power. That is the way of the shaman. Be
the living tree, connected to the earth, reaching for Spirit, channeling
the energies of Nature. You are already walking in the shadow of
the shaman.
This book has been designed to create a framework from which
to make connections with the shamanic energies of Nature, Self, and
Spirit. It is based on several very ancient systems using the energies
and vibrations of the four cardinal directions and their elements
and helpers.