The sun sets on my last weekend of shamanic training. Two years culminated in a weekend centered on learning to die consciously (including enacting our own death), making peace with all of our relations, and a ceremonial rebirth as we transition out of the East. These two years mark some of the hardest, but also the most important, of my life as I witnessed tremendous growth, deep healing, and profound understanding of myself: my wounds, my shadow, and my light. As I approach graduation, I continue to ask the questions, "what does it mean? What does it mean to be a 'shaman'? Being a 'shaman' doesn't mean you're perfect; that you never have a bad day (no one's applying for sainthood here). Being a shaman doesn't mean you heal people or are responsible for their journeys. It may mean, that if you have committed to doing your work, you have learned to hold your own space, to simply be a host for Spirit. It may mean that you hold yourself responsible and accountable to how you show up.I have learned to be incredibly patient and compassionate with myself, and others. I have learned about the stories that I tell about myself, and others; the stories that keep me rooted in old patterns and behaviors. I have learned, and am still learning, what it means to forgive and to love. Finally, I am just beginning to learn how to get out of my own way, releasing who I think I am, so I may become who I meant to be. I am ready. I am ready to take all the tears, the lessons, the insights, the laughs, the "aha moments", and the tools and bring it into my everyday. I cannot even begin thank Denise Sheehan for this opportunity. It was more than I could have ever imagined. I am indebted to your radiant brilliance, your guiding love, and authentic presence. I am grateful to my fellow shamans; for showing up, for "seeing" me, and for holding the version of myself I aspire to be. I love you all dearly. Aho! Chris Daniels, Alchemist Theatre, Reno, NV 1.13.19