Misappropriated or Bringing it Forward?

I’m not sure when it started.

Perhaps as a grade-schooler in the woods beside my house, caught in my imagination hanging out on the rocks.

Maybe it was one of those trips to the farmlands of Wilson, Arkansas, to visit my mom’s family. She would stop on the side of the road to show us cotton crops, reminding us this was where we came from… (totally like being on Tara in Gone with the Wind.)

Or it could have been the One-Match-Fire-Club at summer camp learning to start campfires.

I always seemed to find myself back on Mother Earth. There was a calling deep inside my soul that I listened to in times of feeling lost.

The title I was given… An Aquarian Shaman.

I confess … I’ve never used this the title of Shaman to describe myself, even though I know I am an energy transformer who discerns energies and outdated beliefs to alleviate restlessness and pain. 

My work requires me to work in energy, alter stagnant energy, and help others release the pain and struggles within their life.

But what does it mean to be gifted with such a prestigious title? Is it a badge of honor or a heavy mantle that I must bear? As I reflect on this question, I find myself caught between the realms of self-identification and the societal perceptions that often accompany titles like ‘Shaman.’

Role of a Shaman

In many cultures, the role of a Shaman is revered and seen as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realms. It’s a position that commands respect, but it also comes with responsibilities. 

To be an Aquarian Shaman is to embody the traits of innovation, humanitarianism, and a deep connection to the cosmos. It speaks to my nature of seeking truth and healing—not just for myself, but for the collective. Yet, with this title comes the risk of misappropriation.

The Spiral Path

Shamanism teaches us that we don’t move in a straight line. That can be a punishing path, as life is full of ins and outs, ups and downs. We take a step forward and, many times, two or three back. We push too hard or not enough.

The spiral path teaches us to combine the divine feminine and masculine and seek balance in all things. It’s a graceful dance through the elements of life. A spiral typically has a smooth, continuous curve that winds around a central axis, representing parts of male and female energies. Spirals often symbolize growth and evolution, a journey that expands outward. This characteristic makes them a common motif in nature, such as in seashells, galaxies, and plant growth.

The concept represents a nonlinear journey of growth, healing, and transformation. Unlike a straight line that suggests a simple progression from point A to point B, the spiral path symbolizes the cyclical nature of life, where experiences and lessons are revisited and deepened over time.

In its essence, the spiral path in shamanism is a metaphor for understanding the complexities of personal and spiritual development. It encourages individuals to embrace their unique journeys while recognizing the cyclical nature of life and healing.

Honoring Traditions

There’s a fine line between honoring the traditions and practices of ancient cultures and appropriating them for personal gain or superficial status. I recognize that many who take on such titles may do so without understanding the deep-rooted significance behind them. This awareness has kept me humble, ensuring that I approach my work with reverence and an open heart.

In my journey, I’ve always sought to learn from those who walked the path before me—elders, teachers, and even the whispers of the wind as it rustles through the trees. Each lesson has reinforced the idea that the title of Shaman is not something to be worn lightly. It’s a calling that demands integrity, wisdom, and the ability to hold space for others in their most vulnerable moments.

As I navigate this intersection of identity and vocation, I find myself questioning: How do I bring this title forward in a way that honors its essence? How can I use my gifts to serve others without losing sight of the lessons learned from those who have come before me?

Embracing the Journey

Ultimately, being an Aquarian Shaman is about embracing the journey of transformation—not just for myself but for the world around me. It’s a reminder to remain grounded in my roots while simultaneously reaching for the stars. 

I may not have worn this title openly, but I carry its spirit within me, guiding me as I continue to explore the depths of energy work, and healing.

In sharing this, I hope to inspire others to reflect on their own gifts and the titles they may carry. 

Are they a source of pride? 

A responsibility? 

Or perhaps a blend of both? 

As we navigate our paths, it is a time to remember to honor the journeys that shape us and the connections that bind us to one another. After all, we are all seekers, travelers on this earth, each with our own unique stories to tell.

The truth is… it isn’t so much in the title as it is in my actions.

This conversation continues on The Empowered Spirit Show with my guest Linda Star Wolf and her latest book, The Aquarian Shaman: Walking the Spiral Path of Transformation.