Transformation

Last May my adopted grandfather, mentor and friend Charles Lawrence initiated a conversation with me.   I say initiated, because with Charles and many elders, the conversation that might start in May 2022 will evolve throughout our relationship. That’s what I’ve learned about teachers and elders, never expect a quick or direct answer, but allow for the evolution of information to come forward.

 We were talking about the concept of transformation. What exactly is meant by transformation? Frequently, in circles people will say how they were ‘transformed’ by a moment or ceremony. 

 What do they mean when they indicate transformation?

 He asked if I had ever seen anyone truly transformed? I will frequently use this word of transformation to express how I may have been deeply moved by an experience.  Although I might indicate I was transformed it’s not uncommon that I find myself returning to my old vices and perhaps not as transformed after all.  Now, in my defense, if I review the trajectory of my life, I can report that yes I have in fact been transformed in many ways.  I can often point to specific ceremonies or even conversations that have left an imprint in my life in a manner that impacts my sense of identity or approach to life.  I would say that my transformation has been the consistency of conscience effort supported by ceremony and ritual.   This process filters itself into an evolution towards today and the ongoing trajectory of what could come tomorrow.

 This conversation on transformation was an interesting play with this word or concept. Language is a gateway to our agendas and windows to our subconscious.  Frequently, in our talking circles or prayers, we will use language without fully considering the vibrational impact of our words. 

• When we speak about transformation what does that mean?

•  What would be the demonstrated value of transformation?

•  People often use the word “deeper”, for example wanting to have a “deeper relationship with …”.  

• When we talk about wanting to go “deeper” what would that look like and how would it be experienced?

 This past weekend Bruce and I facilitate three days of sacred circles. This included deep ritual and talking circles to process the progress of the retreat.  Many of these people were relatively new to the process of ritual and engagement in spirit. Some might think of this newness as a handicap, but for me, the handicap is often those who are so steeped in ritual that they have become acclimated to the magic and habitual in the process. 

 What we witnessed in this retreat was remarkable. I have spent the following day stunned in amazement of how folks were transformed by the weekend.  People who had been thoroughly immersed in stories of fear and limitations, began to see the magic possible in their lives.  People who showed up in the place of doubt and anxiety left with determination to move the energy of their life in a forward trajectory.

 I’m convinced that at the conclusion of that ceremony people had, in fact, experienced a transformative moment.  Any ceremony can have the potential for catalyst towards change.  The power of the magic is the impact it has on the ongoing commitment to the process or chosen destination.   Intention work challenges to think substantially outside the apparent limitations we are seduced to normalize.  The metaphor of the butterfly is the transformative power of the chrysalis. 

Recently I was asked how my mindfulness techniques influence my life and my response was one of confusion.  I don’t think of my path as a technique or a trick of mindfulness.  My response was that my path of Spirit is not a ritual or practice but the essence of how I see life, the framework of a relationship of understanding and when I sit in a sacred circle the manifestation of Spirit is the accumulative effort or focus of seeing the world as opportunity and possibility.  I dare to dream and trust that my ancestral resources are working in my behalf.

 To those of you who have been touched by ceremony, a retreat, or a new level of consciousness you are invited to continue to engage in that process.  Here are some suggestions.

·      Return to the retreats.

·      Return to the ceremonies.

·      Incorporate daily time to connect with your own heart and breath.

·      Remind yourself of how you are growing.

·      Use nurturing language in reference to yourself.

·      Spend time in nature.

·      Cultivate and embrace the loving support system around you.

·      Consult with your elders.

·      Allow yourself to expand in thought and spirit.

·      Be the apprentice in life.

·      Be open to growth and possibility.

·      Be open to, yes!

·      Anticipate miracles.

·      Be open to adventures and new horizons.

 When you do this work, the Ancestors open doors and allows opportunities to come your way.