18 /In the Shadow of the Shaman

Still standing in the South, tum to face the center candle.

Speaking toward the center candle, say what you hope for in a totem.

Qualities such as patience, courage, determination, wisdom, and so

on are good for emphasizing the needs in yourself and the qualities
you want strengthened by your relationship with the totem. You can be
specific if you wantto. For example, you could say "I wantto find a totem
from the Mineral World to help me make my inner journeys."

However, I advise that you begin with the positive qualities you wish
to strengthen in yourself. Then cast them out to the four winds. That
way you don't limit what comes to you. Also, they may give you an
Indication of which world you already have a strong connection
to, shamanically.

When you have finished describing what you seek in a totem, light the
center candle to signal the way.

Sit for a time and open yourself to your inner visions. You may
receive an image or a thought right away.

Also, be very aware of the environment around you.

What does that shadow remind you of?

What was that fragrance drifting by?
What stone was that tumbling off the shelf just then?
-or in my case, once-
What was that howling in the back yard? (The dogs
whimpered for hours after that.)

Sometimes the results can be pretty quick. Sometimes you have to

watch the environment for days. This also depends on the person
and the totem. A quiet-spirited person and totem may take a bit longer
to connect.

When you are ready to close the ceremony, express your thanks to
the totem (even if it hasn't shown up quite yet).

Honor the four directions and all the unseen helpers for their positive
contributions.

Blow out each direction candle: South-West-North-East.

Let the center candle burn down if at all possible. A votive candle­
holder, on a plate as well, Is safest.