Most of us have not experienced such a turbulent and life-changing time as we are experiencing now. The pandemic, chaotic political events, social unrest, and extreme weather all unfolding over a short time frame have us reeling and searching for answers. Even Thanksgiving was fraught with danger this year. But, somehow we managed, and some of us recognized that we still have much to be grateful for.
Fortunately for us, there are ceremonial leaders and other deeply spiritual people who are shedding light and showing us a path forward through these times. One recent example of such guidance came when the global Pachamama Alliance community came together on November 12, 2020, to explore Indigenous Wisdom for These Times as part of the Resilience and Possibility in These Times series. These online offerings are designed to support us in staying connected to one another, to see a collective vision for the future, and to tune into the life-giving spirit that holds us all.
That day, Peruvian ceremonial leader Arkan Lushwala, recorded a message for our community that served as inspiration for Listening Circles already engaged with the intention of providing a space for listening to—and be listened to by—the community so that wisdom may emerge. On that day there were break-out sessions during which participants shared their thoughts and feelings about our times and the message received.
A week later Arkan Lushwala opened sacred space for the Nov. 19 Pachamama Alliance global gathering.
Another friend of the Pachamama Alliance, Pat McCabe, also known as Woman Stands Shining, is a wonderful source of wisdom and inspiration. During the first video below, she talks about how we can come into right relationship with nature and acknowledge our interconnected existence. Each of the other clips offer additional insights to explore.
- From the nonprofit EcoResoultion, Indigenous Ways of Knowing & Our Relationship with Nature
- On Prayer & Right Relations
- At the Advaya event Regenerative Activism: Revitalizing Self and Society on Thriving Life: Indigenous Ways of Knowing
Pat McCabe was also on a recent Pachamama Alliance panel discussion entitled “Voices of Indigenous Women: Teachings of Our Current Crisis”; you may want to check it out.
There is a wealth of outstanding indigenous leaders featured on the Bioneers website (including their upcoming conference this weekend) but one of the most touching talks by an indigenous leader is a video of Jerry Tello, co-founder of the Healing Generations Institute. Mr. Tello is celebrated in the field of the transformational healing of traumatized men and boys of color, but in this powerful video he shares his approach to generating the “medicine” necessary to shield and heal ourselves as well as others from toxic energy, and to recovering our sacredness.
Be sure to regularly check out our website’s Spiritually Fulfilling page for more information and new resources on this topic.
And, please see the Peace House website for regular updates on Almeda fire relief, community meals, and opportunities for action right here in our community.