(Last Updated: 19 years ago)
AUTHOR: Gerald Fisher
The night is alive. Not simply present, but pulsating with a vibrant energy that manifests in the crackling dance of flames and the murmur of the wind. Imagine a solitary figure, bathed in the flickering light of a campfire, the air thick with the scent of woodsmoke and the promise of something profound. The wind, no longer just a weather phenomenon, becomes a voice, a conduit for secrets whispered across time and space. This is the setting for a journey, an inner exploration guided by forces both seen and unseen, a journey towards understanding The Calling.
The air shimmers with an almost palpable presence. The individual experiences a sensation of being surrounded, not by physical beings, but by the echoes of lives lived before. These are the dancers from past lives, not necessarily their own in a linear sense, but rather representatives of experiences, lessons, and ancestral wisdom woven into the very fabric of existence. They are ethereal guides, leading the individual on a winding path through the labyrinth of their own history, a history that transcends the limitations of a single lifetime. This dance is not a literal performance, but a metaphorical journey through the accumulated knowledge and experiences embedded within the soul.
The mind, ever the analytical observer, struggles to keep pace. It searches for meaning, attempting to categorize and understand the swirling images and emotions that flood the senses. Yet, the true understanding lies not in intellectual comprehension, but in the surrender to the spirit’s dance. It is in letting go of the need to control and analyze, and instead, embracing the flow of intuition and feeling. The drums, the rhythmic heartbeat of the earth, provide the foundation for this spiritual exploration. Their primal cadence resonates deep within, connecting the individual to the ancient rhythms of life, death, and rebirth. The drums are more than just instruments; they are living entities, participating in and driving the unfolding narrative.
Memories surface, not as clear-cut recollections, but as fragments of insight and understanding. These are not necessarily memories of personal experiences, but rather glimpses into the vast tapestry of human history and consciousness. From these echoes of the past, the individual gleans insights into the future, not as predetermined events, but as potential pathways shaped by the choices made in the present. The wind, the ever-present messenger, whispers of sweat lodge dreams, visions born from purification and introspection. These dreams are not mere fantasies, but potent symbols laden with meaning, guiding the individual towards self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Suddenly, a figure emerges from the shadows, a powerful presence that commands attention. It is Sungmanitu tanka, the wolf, a spirit guide, a totem animal embodying loyalty, intuition, and guardianship. The wolf leads the individual through the veil, revealing a gathering of ancestors. These are not the ancestors of a specific lineage, not Lakota, Tsalagi, or Iroquois, but something far more profound. They represent the collective wisdom of all nations, a unified tapestry of human experience woven together by shared struggles, triumphs, and a deep connection to the earth. They are not divided by tribal boundaries or cultural differences, but united by their shared humanity.
These ancestors speak, not with words, but with a profound wisdom that transcends language. Their message is one of unity, harmony, and the interconnectedness of all things. They offer insights into the cyclical nature of time, the way in which the past shapes the present, and the present holds the key to the future. Yesterdays create todays, and todays hold the promises of tomorrow. The choices made in the present will determine the course of future generations.
The lies, the deceptions, and the illusions that have clouded the truth will dissipate like smoke in the wind. The truth will be revealed, clear and undeniable. The whispers of the wind, once faint and indistinct, will become a powerful chorus, resonating with clarity and conviction. This clarity allows the individual to perceive the potential for healing and restoration, the hope for a brighter future. The image of the buffalo, a symbol of abundance, resilience, and spiritual power, becomes a potent vision, representing the return of balance and harmony to the land and to the people. It is a promise of restoration, a sign that the wounds of the past can be healed, and a new era of peace and prosperity can dawn. This vision encapsulates the essence of The Calling.
The experience culminates in a profound sense of interconnectedness and purpose. The individual emerges transformed, carrying the wisdom of the ancestors and the guidance of the spirit world. They are empowered to act as a catalyst for positive change, to contribute to the healing of the world, and to help usher in the return of the buffalo, both literally and metaphorically. The journey, guided by the fire, the wind, the drums, and the spirit guides, has led to a deeper understanding of self, the world, and The Calling. The final affirmation, "AHO," a Lakota expression of gratitude and agreement, seals the experience, acknowledging the power and the sacredness of the journey.