As I explore this Medicine Woman path, I become acutely aware of how all encompassing the term “medicine” is. I know some of you may be conjuring up images in your mind of me in some buckskin dress with my face painted, incense blowing everywhere, waving a feather around as I dance to a drum beat. But, truly I’m discovering there are simple aspects and acts that one who walks in the Medicine Woman Tradition incorporates into their daily rituals that don’t require the vision above. Becoming and living the life of a medicine woman, means, to me, living completely in this moment. Expressing my whole self through every act, consciously, pointedly, truthfully, and fully. In the past, things like being responsible for cooking the meals and feeding my family was one more task, chore, burden that had been bestowed upon me with womanhood, motherhood and marriage. It was truly not a highlight of my day for a long time. But, living presently and intentionally includes, lovingly nourishing my family. And as I walk this path, the more I enjoy this now blessed task. I find joy in coming up with new ways to feed my loved ones with foods that help heal them, give them strength, and surprise them. I keep this intent present when I’m preparing the foods and giving thanks for their nourishment. And for me, I get to be CREATIVE!!! I’ve begun to express my ideas and myself, not only through some art form, but life itself is becoming an art form. So, I play with color, textures, flavors and presentation. Whole, natural foods are the best, because they instinctively take on these properties! So, go ahead, play a little. Make smile-y faces on your pizza or toast. Build mountains out of your oatmeal or mashed potatoes (remember the movie “Close Encounters of the Third Kind…). A shift in perspective is happening for me, and the life force (yes similar to that of a Jedi Knight) is flowing freely through me…..and isn’t that what living is all about anyway… Being whole-ly human. Try it, you just might like it!