All Writings

I hope whomever reads through these posts are moved to walk through the world with a wider sense of being, a more compassionate heart, and with a greater intention to recognize and work towards fostering interconnectedness with all beings. One of my favorite Buddhist texts, the Bodhicaryavatara by Shantideva has these beautiful lines that for me, sum up my intention as a human and as a chaplain:

May I be a guard for those that are protectorless, 
A guide for those who journey on the road.
For those who wish to cross the water.
May I be a boat, a raft, a bridge.

- Bodhicaryavatara by Shantideva (chap. 3, vs 18 Padmakara Translation)

Susan Shannon Susan Shannon

Shamanism & Divination Amongst Tribes of the North Pacific Coast Region

My intention in researching this topic is two-fold. I was born in Seattle, Washington and spent much of my life in the San Juan Islands. North American Indian lore is rich in those parts. Most of the region’s many rivers and mountains are named after Northwest tribes. Totem poles and Tlingit art were a part of my upbringing, as were salmon, seals, orca whales, eagles, crows and horses.

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