Question by Young&Curios: School or Religion?
For many months I have been trying to choose whether to transfer from a University hundreds of miles away from home, to a nearby college. I want to become a Native American shaman something held in high regards these days, but with little or no $$ in the long run.doing this is very important because our religion is facing extinction within the next few years. My fear is that it will be gone when i graduate from this university. Im the only one left, because i am really the only one who speaks the language and no the chants. The ceremonies are dissapearing everyday. & only a few left. If i stay i can save those few, but put my whole career aside. My family supports me both ways. But personally the ceremonies are far far far more precious. Im afraid of regretting it. the education is good and a rare oppurtunity. This religion has nothing to do with christianity, it is a far more ancient and far more stricter religion, it requires committment for life. what would seem more ethical?
Thankyou for all your suggestions. ITs now obvious to what my path is to be.
Best answer:
Answer by Hari Patel
native american shahmans? dude they arent going to teach you that in Medical school
Give your answer to this question below!
The religion of your people fading from the earth forever would be a tremendous tragedy. I’d like to see you able to balance both but, if that is not possible then as you say your religion is much more precious.
No one can make that decision for you. You need to do some meditation on this and let your spirit decide. The answer is there and it sounds like you have the tools to find it.
I don’t believe there is an “ethical” answer to your situation; but I would point out that you obviously feel very strongly about becoming a Shaman… You may never have such a chance again to be of such a benefit to your community.
Many universities are very committed to saving the language, religion and culture of the First Nation People. Do some research. Check with tribal councils.
Why not do both? You can study for a degree that will help you to keep your tribal traditions alive. Some that come to mind would be anthropology, sociology, communications, history, journalism, or many others. You can still keep learning your heritage and be better prepared to pass your knowlege along to your successors as well as networking with others in your field of study. You will gain credibility in both worlds.
I spent a few years on the Salish and Kootenai lands in Montana and I definitely understand how you feel the old traditions are being lost. Most of the tribal youth I came into contact with were only interested in their heritage when it was to their benefit, it was very disgraceful.
Isn’t the term “shaman” something that’s looked down on…?
What are you studying in college? It would be worth it to go get a degree in something that would be of good use to take back home. Then work on the “shaman” thing we you get back…
I personally understand it is very important to keep your religion, but you should also understand education is as important as your religion in today’s society. No matter where you go or where you work, you can not live without a degree. I think it is great if you can do both at the same time, but if you can not, then you’d better weigh which one is more important, education or religion. No matter what you choose, I think your family and friends will support you.