56/ In the Shadow of the Shaman

Tenderfoot Pouch
(Use at least one totem from each world.)

Mineral World A stone, any kind you feel drawn to except

a crystal or gemstone

Animal World A small feather, bit of fur, claw, whiskers,

rabbit tails, wings of butterflies, snake skin

Plant World Dried flowers, leaves, herbs, interesting twigs

or roots

Human World Personal charms, buttons, hair, chains, locket,

tiny figures, such as miniatures for games
and models

Add a seed or a nut for growth

Add a crystal or gemstone for Spirit

Add a colored marble, bead, or ribbon for

your special color

I have seen this collection made up of very tiny totems from each
world and worn in a small pouch around the neck or carried in a pocket.
Because it represents a whole world of vibrations, it always serves to
remind me that everything we connect with is significant. The smallest
bit of fluff is as important as the finest wing feather. The tiniest
wildflower is as powerful a connector to the Plant World as the
rarest blossom.
The tenderfoot pouch can be a good teacher. As you make other
collections for medicine pouches, the tenderfoot pouch can serve as
a guideline for balancing the energies. Later you may decide to make
up just stone pouches or herb pouches. But the tenderfoot pouch is a
good reminder that we need all the elements in balance on the
shamanic path.
The tenderfoot pouch is also good to give as a special gift to
someone you know rather well. You can add a Human World totem
of your own as a symbol of your connection to that person, or you can
suggest they add their own.
As I was leaving Houston, a very dear friend presented me with a
tiny Oriental pouch that she had found at the import store. In it were
some of the dearest totems that symbolized our work togeth er over