Witch doctors, psychics, mediums, spiritualists are but just a few of the many names associated Many of us have heard these names echoed since childhood, but do we reallyknow who these people are? In the United States these people are viewed as outcast; therehasnt been a need for them in a very long time. Science, and modern technology have exiled theShaman into the fringe of society. They remain a mystery to most, but beckon the open-minded. The Shaman is a spiritual wayfarer, that hasnt thrived in the United States since the arrival ofthe white man, and his conquest of nature.There are many definitions for shamanism, but few reveal the true nature of the Shaman.In simple terms, the Shaman is a person called upon to serve as a herald for the realm of thedead, but a Shaman is much more. A Shaman is someone who has explored, and gained a greatunderstanding of their inner being. They can tap into the force that flows throughout the world,and manipulate it. A Shaman can alter his conscience so that he may travel to other worlds filledwith objects, and various kinds of spirits. In the spirit realm, a Shaman can gain knowledge inorder to help in healing, and other matters at hand. He is a spiritual advisor, and a healer of bothphysical and mental ailments.A destined Shaman is typically clued in to their destiny by various forms of suffering. The most common clue is an extended illness for which there is no apparent cure. During thistime of suffering, the chosen person has dreams, visions, and journeys to the spirit realms, andare usually accompanied by a guild spirit. This spiritual guild commonly informs the ill personof their fate to become a Shaman. There is usually hesitation on the part of the chosen one, butthe suffering breaks down the will of that person. In the end, the destined assumes the role asShaman, and his suffering diminishes. With the guidance of an elder Shaman, or sometimes justtheir spirit guild, the new shaman is...
