Shamanic Reality Searles Fri Nov 27 04:24:49 1998 I participated in a Shamanic workshop about fours years ago where some work was being done on a number of issues: *p*1. Discarding the protective attitudes we have that hold us back,*p*2. Accepting power without grabbing for it.*p*3. Being able to sense reality with all of our senses and not just the five senses we think we have. *p*These are all worthy goals and certainly should be included in a Shamanic Workshop, but it is my experience that obtaining these goals does not make one Shaman. To become Shaman one of three things must occur: *p*1. The Shaman must die and become alive again while retaining memory of the death experience and the previous life. Becoming alive again must be accomplished by the will of the Shaman. *p*2. The Shaman must travel into alternate realities, endure many dangers and wonders and then be able to return with full knowledge of the experience.*p*3. The Shaman must be "selected" by a Spirit Being that forces/tricks him/her into becoming Shaman, while serving as a guide.*p*As far as I know in my personal experience and knowledge, there are no other ways to become Shaman. The death experience of a Shaman, tears away their ego (death is the loss of ego). It forces one to face the ultimate fear of Non-Being. It also requires one to see with the Spirit rather than the senses, if one expects to return from or accomplish anything in a Shamanic journey. The work of becoming a Shaman is not easy and certainly is not a safe path. It is not lightly undertaken by anyone as it involves death, fear and potential loss of self. *p*The first three points that were being taught in the Workshop are certainly worthy goals (as I previously stated), but IMHO what is required of any Shaman, before all else, is the determination and Will to surpass even death in order to touch one's Spirit. That's my experience. Is there another way?*p*Searles *p*"Come with me", said the Golden Light - Alone in the Dark without Fear.. I journeyed into other lives.