A Culture of Gifting – and New Beginnings

A few days before my birthday, I received a package in the mail from one of my most beloved shamanic elders, Sally. Upon opening it, I discovered layers of brightly colored tissue paper and underneath, a beautiful, soft shawl woven with an elaborate design and highlights of thick, multicolored yarn.

While I was initially delighted, a feeling of nostalgia quickly came over me. I recognized the shawl — I’d seen Sally wear it at ceremonies and other gatherings — and suddenly I had questions about what this gift meant.

Gifting — or passing on sacred objects and tools — is part of shamanic culture. It’s very common among practitioners, especially those in the same community. Many times when Circles — or gatherings — are planned, the organizer might let everyone know it’s a good time to bring anything they feel no longer belongs to them and see if anyone else is attracted to it or could use it. It’s a beautiful acknowledgement and acceptance of change, an exchange of energy and a reflection of nonattachment. But most of all, it’s about community and continuity.

Gifting can happen between anyone. It can be light and casual — or it can have a more serious tone. For example, years ago, Sally gifted my oldest daughter a carved wooden frog to play with as a toy. But this most recent gift — her shawl — felt different.

I picked up the phone to call Sally. After I thanked her, she explained that she felt it was time the shawl moved on to the next person, and she felt that next person was me, especially since I was doing more healing work on my own.

Formerly a nun, Sally was one of the first people I met on the shamanic path. Even when I was a stranger, she was warm and welcoming, soft and kind to me. Since then, I’ve learned Sally also exemplifies strength and wisdom. When others lose focus, she brings them back to purpose. She is the voice of reason and guides with gentleness and grace.

Sally has been a role model for me. I often think of her when considering how I want to develop myself as a healing practitioner — and as a human being. Her gift is a meaningful gesture also symbolizing something I used to fear — a sort of passing of the torch, a new chapter in which I take on more responsibility for leading. I had memories of Sally wearing the shawl while our entire community was together, and now it was in my hands.

Having it with me also is a reassurance. It is a physical reminder that Sally is behind me, encouraging me to continue. Like Sally has a special place in my heart, the shawl has an honored place in my studio.