Secrets of Shamanism

Jose ATID LEIIA STEVENS^209

do is think about food—lemonade, beer, or hot chocolate.

You may even consider quitting and going into town for a

bite to eat or going home early. It is best to ignore these

typical distractions and simply say to yourself something like

"And this too." This helps to remind you that what you are

thinking or feeling is not to be resisted, simply acknowledged

and let go. If you try to fight these distractions they will only

get worse. In our groups, we have found that those who

stuck with their original plan gained much more from the

experience than those who bailed out. These obstacles are all

part of the experience and are not a negative reflection on

you. In fact, they can teach you a lot about yourself.

COMPLETING THE VISION QUEST

When you have come to the end of your allotted time,
thank the spirits of that place and restore it back to its origi-
nal natural state. Erase all evidence that you have been
there. Clean up any trash left over by former visitors.
Do not worry if you have not received any clear answers
or messages during your vision quest. Often the insights do
not immediately penetrate into your physical body, but
within several days you will begin to have insights and clarity
that will surprise you. Occasionally these insights will be
weeks, months, and even years in coming. Remember that
shamanic time is different from the ordinary time you are
used to.

SHARING

You can share your insights and experiences with a friend
or group who are supportive. Ask them not to analyze or try
to interpret your experience from their own point of view.
This could distort your own benefits. However, you will find
that just talking about your vision quest will make it real and
help you understand and gain from it. Certainly writing
about your experiences can be very helpful during the inte-
gration process.
Sometimes it is appropriate to keep the experience pri-
vate and share it or parts of it with no one. Some shamanic
traditions encourage sharing, while others recommend
against it. We see advantages to each at different times under
different circumstances. Use your own discretion with regard
to this.