Sacred Reciprocity
We are now nearing the end of the annual cycle of 2023. In agrarian cultures, whose traditions remain deep in our ancient architecture, November marks the end of the months-long season of Harvest. By the end of the month, the hard work of gathering the bounty of a year of planting, nurturing, and gathering comes to an end. Attention begins to turn to making preparations for the oncoming Winter. Now comes the season of giving thanks for the many blessings of Nature.
Sacred Reciprocity
There is a sacred reciprocity inherent in the act of receiving. It is a means of staying in balance – in harmony – with all things. As you receive, it is also necessary to give. This understanding is at the heart of rituals of “thanks giving,” and it is vital. It is important to remember that this giving back is not done with an expectation of getting back. It is giving and receiving without expectation that makes the exchange sacred.
Nature provides without expectation of return. For many of us post-industrial Humans, sacred reciprocity for that generosity may seem increasingly complex. However, it does not need to be so. Gratitude can be very, very simple, and there are many opportunities to express gratitude every day. You can plant a tree or leave a token of gratitude in a place of beauty. Take along food for the animals as you walk in the park; throw bread into your yard for the birds. You can express your appreciation for all the Beings who sacrificed for your meal.
A heartfelt smile can be a powerful expression of gratitude, as can a kind word of support. Given without necessity or expectation of return, such gestures are simple ways of passing along the bounty that you have received.
Imagine what it would be like if the idea of sacred reciprocity were at the core of your everyday interactions with others. How might that change how you act, how you think, perhaps what you believe about the world—or would it change anything for you at all?
This month, you are invited to explore sacred reciprocity in your “thanks giving.” Go out of your way to practice gratitude in everything you do. Take tobacco or corn meal with you as you walk and offer them to the trees, the animals, the elements. Remember to be kind and offer unconditional gratitude to your friends, relatives, co-workers… those that you meet every day. Give and receive without expectation, just as Nature does.
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.
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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.