My Journey of Walking the Red Road as a Human and Shamanic Practitioner
Walking the Red Road has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. As both a human being navigating the complexities of existence and a Shamanic Practitioner deeply committed to the spiritual path, this journey has shaped me in ways I could never have imagined. I’d like to share some reflections on what it has meant for me to walk this sacred path.
The Call to the Red Road
The call to walk the Red Road didn’t come to me in a sudden moment of revelation. Instead, it was a gentle, persistent pull—like the soft voice of the wind urging me to listen more closely, to pay attention to the signs around me. As a Shamanic Practitioner, I’ve always been attuned to the spiritual dimensions of life, but this path felt different. It was a call to go deeper, to live with even greater integrity, and to align my actions more closely with the teachings I had been given in the Sweat Lodge, the Temezcal in 1988..
I realized that walking the Red Road was not just about following a set of spiritual practices; it was about embodying a way of life that honors the interconnectedness of all beings. It was about living in harmony with the Earth, respecting all life, and approaching each day with humility and gratitude.
The Early Steps
When I first began consciously walking the Red Road, I felt both excitement and trepidation. The path was not clearly marked, and there were no detailed maps to guide me. I was fortunate to meet elders from many different traditions who both guided and inspired me through their dedication of the teachings they had been given. I also relied on my intuition, the teachings of my ancestors, and the guidance of the spiritual beings who have walked this road before me.
One of the earliest lessons I learned was the importance of listening—truly listening—to the world around me. This meant quieting my mind, tuning into my physical vessel, and being present with whatever arose. Whether it was the sound of silence, the music that played, or the telling of experiences through the lens of stories told by others, each moment offered a lesson if I was willing to listen.
As a Shamanic Practitioner, I have always sought to bridge the spiritual with the practical, helping others to heal and find their own paths. Walking the Red Road has deepened this work in profound ways. It has brought a new level of authenticity to my practice, as I strive to embody the principles of the Red Road in every aspect of my life.
One of the key teachings of the Red Road is respect—for oneself, for others, and for all life. This respect has become a guiding principle in my work. Whether I am working with a client, conducting a ceremony, or simply going about my day, I strive to approach each situation with respect and reverence. This has brought a greater sense of peace and purpose to my practice, as well as a deeper connection to those I work with.
Challenges and Growth
Walking the Red Road is not without its challenges. There have been moments of deep discomfort, when I questioned whether I was able to walk in alignment with the path. The road is not always easy—it requires constant self-reflection, a willingness to face one’s shadows, and the courage to make difficult choices.
But with each challenge has come growth. The Red Road has taught me to embrace discomfort as a teacher, to see obstacles as opportunities for deeper understanding. It has helped me to cultivate greater patience, compassion, and resilience. And perhaps most importantly, it has shown me that the journey itself is the destination—that each step, no matter how small, is a sacred act of walking in harmony with the universe.
The Ongoing Journey
Walking the Red Road is a lifelong journey. It is not a path with a clear endpoint, but rather an ongoing process of learning, growing, and evolving. Each day offers new lessons, new opportunities to walk in balance, and new challenges to work (or play) through.
As I continue on this journey, I am deeply grateful for the guidance of my ancestors, the wisdom of the Earth, and the support of my spiritual community. The Red Road has enriched my life in ways I could never have anticipated, bringing a deeper sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment.
For anyone who feels called to walk the Red Road, I encourage you to listen to that call. It may not always be easy, but it is a path of profound beauty and meaning. Whether you are just beginning your journey or have been walking this road for years, know that you are not alone. The Red Road is a path that connects us all, weaving us together in the sacred web of life.
May we all walk this road with humility, respect, and gratitude, honoring the sacredness of every step we take. I am here to witness and support you on this road.