Perspectives of Awareness in Shamanism and Mysticism

Question: Must we “pay attention” to control and direct all our behavior? Give examples and explain your answer.

Almine’s Answer:  In advanced mysticism, as well as shamanism, the answer to the previously stated question would have to be given from two perspectives in order to avoid ambiguity.

• FIRST PERSPECTIVE:

The truthseeker’s quest is for enhanced awareness of all potential available to him or her in the moment. This can only be accomplished by full attention to the moment, and deliberate and powerful actions derived from complete focus on the now.

• SECOND PERSPECTIVE:

It is indicative of advanced levels of spiritual development, when the truthseeker is accomplished at what is called “not-doing” in Toltec mysticism, and “Eagle-vision” in Shamanic traditions. This entails at all times, not only fully participating in articulating in the moment, but simultaneously being the objective observer.

This is a vital requirement to provide a dispassionate discernment that ensures that we act from the integrity, and inclusivity that considers the well being of all life forms.