Many years ago I read a book written by Doug Boyd, about the renowned Native American Medicine Man, healer, called Rolling Thunder. It’s a fascinating account of a genuine shaman. One of the things that stood out to me as I learned about his life was the fact that, as a healer, Rolling Thunder didn’t help everyone who requested his assistance. What’s more, before making a decision to help (or not) he spent time (sometimes days) getting a sense of whether or not he felt guided to help. This principle impressed itself upon me. Today, whilst I help most people who contact me, every now and again I also decline. For example, if I sense someone is being untruthful, or if they’re involved with negative energies (as a few have been), or if someone is rude, or obsessive, or demanding, or if they ask unreasonable things of me (as sometimes happens, for instance, I’ve been asked to provide architectural advice, financial advice, legal advice and medical advice at different times) then I decline, or don’t respond.
As Rolling Thunder’s example demonstrates shamans and healers then do not always assist everyone who seeks their help. The answer to why this may be the case, as I’ve hinted at above, sometimes is nuanced and involves a combination of ethical, cultural, and practical considerations. Let’s explore this subject in more depth.
Personal Responsibility and Intent
One primary reason shamans and healers don’t always help is the concept of personal responsibility and intent. Many shamans and healers emphasise the importance of an individual’s readiness and willingness to engage in their healing journey. Healing is often viewed not just as a service rendered but as a sacred partnership that requires active participation from both parties. Shamans believe that the individual must be open to change, receptive to spiritual guidance, and willing to embark on a transformative journey. Without this commitment, the healing process may be ineffective.
Energetic Boundaries
Shamans and healers often possess finely tuned sensitivities to energy. When individuals seek help, they energetically present their issues, needs, and intentions. If a healer feels that the energy a person brings is misaligned or too heavy, they may opt not to engage. This rejection is not a matter of judgement; rather, it is an instinct to protect their own energy and the sanctity of the healing space. Healers are often mindful of the energetic exchanges that take place during healing sessions, choosing only to work with those they feel a spiritual connection with or who are open to their methods.
Complexity of Issues
The issues that people bring to shamans and healers can be incredibly complex. From emotional traumas to physical ailments, the healing process can require deep introspection and extensive work beyond a single session. Shamans may choose not to take on cases they feel require more specialised knowledge or skill than they possess. In such cases, they might refer individuals to other practitioners more suited for specific challenges. For example, in instances where a specific type of counselling may be deemed to be the best course, if a shaman is not sufficiently trained in that area of counselling to offer the necessary level of support, then they would decline a request.
The Consequences of Healing
Healing is a profound act that can lead to significant life changes. As such, shamans and healers understand that not everyone is prepared for the potential consequences following treatment. Healing can unearth deep-seated issues, provoke emotional upheaval, or lead to radical lifestyle changes. Recognising that not everyone is ready for such shifts, shamans may decline to work with individuals who are not psychologically or spiritually prepared for the aftermath of their healing journey.
Professional Boundaries
Like in any profession, shamans and healers may also set professional boundaries to protect both themselves and their clients. They may have limited availability or may not wish to take on additional clients who could overwhelm their capacity to provide quality assistance. This is akin to the practices of therapists and counsellors who recognise the limits of their time and resources, ensuring they can give their best to those they can adequately serve.
Ethical Considerations and Free Will
Healers, especially shamans, operate under ethical guidelines that respect individual autonomy and free will. In many cultures, intervention without consent or willingness can be seen as unethical, complicating the healer’s role. Shamans often prioritise the client’s desires and needs — it is paramount that individuals seeking healing are motivated to participate actively in their own process.
Moreover, respect for free will underscores a fundamental belief in the sacred nature of personal choice. Healers, therefore, might not pursue those who appear uninterested or unwilling to engage, as they recognise that true healing must involve the individual’s conscious choice to embark on a personal journey.
Personal Readiness and Willingness
Shamans often assert that healing is most effective when individuals are ready to confront their issues. Personal readiness and willingness to embark on a healing journey can significantly influence the outcome. Sometimes, individuals may seek healing without a genuine desire for change or personal growth, which can hinder the process.
Like Rolling Thunder’s example teaches, the decision of shamans and healers to not assist everyone who requests their help stems from a combination of personal responsibility, energetic sensitivity, cultural context, the complexity of issues, the potential consequences of healing, and the necessity of professional boundaries. While their refusal might be disheartening to those seeking help, it serves a greater purpose—a commitment to the integrity of the healing process and the wellbeing of both the healer and the seeker. Just as in any spiritual practice, respect for the journey and the layers of healing involved is paramount, creating a sacred space where true transformation can occur.
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Recommended reading: Rolling Thunder, by Doug Boyd.
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