“May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you’re wonderful, and don’t forget to make some art — write or draw or build or sing or live as only you can. And I hope, somewhere in the next year, you surprise yourself.” – Neil Gaima
Once Again, We Begin
The resonant phrase, “once again… we begin,” encapsulates the profound significance of this moment within the annual cycle, signaling not just the dawn of a new year but a symbolic rebirth—a chance for personal renewal and growth. In this collective consciousness, we embark on a dual journey of conscious and unconscious purification, deliberately ridding ourselves of the remnants of the past year that no longer serve us. Whether we are cleaning out the refrigerator, purging our social media friends lists, distancing ourselves from family and friends, or spending more time outdoors, we each are examining what works and what doesn’t in our lives.
Consciously, we engage in the intentional act of cleansing, sorting through the clutter of experiences and possessions, discarding what no longer aligns with our evolving selves. This ritual becomes a tangible representation of our commitment to shedding negativity, allowing space for fresh beginnings. Simultaneously, on a subconscious level, we instinctively distance ourselves from patterns and habits that have proven unfruitful, paving the way for personal evolution.
As we usher in the new year, our introspection extends beyond mere purging; it involves a mental inventory of our aspirations and apprehensions. We meticulously catalog the dreams we wish to bring to fruition in the months ahead, envisioning a future that aligns with our deepest desires. Conversely, we may also reflect on the challenges of the past, identifying elements we hope to avoid in the coming year. It is a time of both anticipation and reflection, where the canvas of our future is painted with the hues of our intentions.
In this annual rite of self-discovery, we are united in our pursuit of positive change. Setting goals and aspirations for the new year is not an exercise in self-flagellation; rather, it is an affirmation of our collective yearning for fulfillment, joy, and prosperity. The act of goal setting is inherently an optimistic endeavor, a declaration that we seek to shape our destinies in a way that brings happiness and satisfaction. Indeed, the New Year becomes a canvas upon which we paint our hopes, dreams, and ambitions, each stroke a step toward a brighter and more purposeful future.
All the best for this new year!
The Leadership Team for the Shamanic Community of Austin
Learn More!
We are partnering with The Shamanic Passages Institute to offer two virtual introductory courses especially designed for those new and relatively new to the shamanic journey. Council member Gerry Starnes, M.Ed., author and creator of the Institute, is offering a special 20% discount on two foundational courses. See the blog regarding Journey Courses For Beginners for more information.
The Shamanic Community of Austin website also has an educational library under the Resources page. You can find links to books by leading shamanic teachers and leaders.
The Leadership Council is working towards providing educational online videos for both new and continuing members to learn about our core values and mission. We are also looking to present our leadership team to the community through online videos to express each unique practice, expertise, and shamanic view.
Join the Shamanic Community of Austin Meetup site to keep up with all current event listings and to RSVP. We ask that you RSVP with integrity. A solid head-count before each event helps us better plan and better serve the entire community.
Shamanic Community of Austin Meetup Calendar (Link)
Please consider supporting Shamanic Community of Austin through your contributions PayPal or Venmo
Email us contactus@shamaniccommunityaustin.com
Looking forward to seeing you in circle soon!
With so much deep love and honor,
The Leadership Team for the Shamanic Community of Austin
SCA offers a combination of in-person and on-line events.