As I drew from my Animal Spirits oracle desk this morning, I was aware of how devoid of ideas I was. I have been trying to write a blog for several days now, and no ideas have been forthcoming. When I drew the Wolf-Pathfinder card, my prayers for inspiration were answered.

The wolf is seen as a teacher, the leader who helps others find their way. They are collaborative and live in a pack, each individual knowing their place and fulfilling their individual role as teacher, nurturer, or hunter. Their power comes from cooperating within the pack structure.

During these troubled times, I believe that spiritually awakened women and men are called upon to be the leaders who help others to find a different way. So many are waking up to the idea that our cultural norms are no longer working. We are facing real existential crises, crises that can’t be solved using the old paradigms. As we explore new ideas and new ways of being, the old guard is reacting with increasing violence and hatred.  The old world is in its death throes, and a new world is being born, but in that process chaos and confusion abound.

I believe that we are called to model a new paradigm of cooperating within our groups. We are the pathfinders. We must firmly but lovingly call out lies and injustice. We must bravely stand for the rights of all people, not just the wealthy and privileged few. We must speak truth and be allies with and for those who cannot speak for themselves. Just like in the wolf pack, we are called to protect those who are weaker and defend the integrity of the pack.

I have spent a great portion of my life feeling that I wasn’t good enough, that I didn’t know enough, and that I didn’t have the expertise or experience to speak out. I also was afraid of speaking my truth. As I continue to struggle with these internal barriers, I am coming to realize that it is imperative that I speak, in spite of these perceived limitations. I have gained a certain wisdom by living a long life. It is my job to share that wisdom with those who will listen. It is my job within the collective to do whatever I can in my own little corner to make a difference in someone’s life.

Lately after my morning meditations, I have been writing down how I want to be as my future dream self – the person I want to be this time next year. However, I am writing as if that dream self already exists. I find that each time I write I become stronger and less afraid to speak out when I see injustice. I become more confident as the powerful woman that I am. I no longer feel the need for approval. I stand in my hard-won wisdom. And I am not alone. I am surrounded by other companions on the spiritual path who are working with me to make the world a better place.

Millions of people around the world are working toward a new world paradigm – a world where there is enough for everyone, where justice is truly blind, where love and compassion are operational norms, and where peace prevails. Sometime soon there will be a tipping point where the old gives way to the new.  I invite you to join the pack and do your small part to change the world by living out your best self and sharing your wisdom.

Barbara Garland
September, 2022