People are drawn to totems or objects they regard as special. An inner spirit exists in everything according to beliefs based on animism, and this idea is not difficult to understand because we often become connected with certain material objects: an old coat given by a grandparent, a riskily acquired camera or trinket of some sort, or even the first-ever item we longed for as a child and then finally received: a 1985 Nintendo Entertainment System! All of these serve as examples of important items. While we may not worship the very same objects of significance, we all do tend to engage in this practice of adoration to a lesser or greater extent. Add to this extra aura of specialness a hearty dose of legend, magic, or a connection to your religion, and you truly have a bona fide spiritual totem. For example, there is just something enchanting about a guitar Brian May built by hand with the help of his father, recorded several groundbreaking albums with, and continues to use live to this day. – (I’m taking recommendations for a better guitar example. This one just came to mind first. Guitar experts and enthusiasts please respond.)
Let’s create our own totem. This can be done with many different things, but I recommend you do it with something you already think is a little special. Different objects will require different techniques, and some objects are not recommended. Something that will last a long time and is durable is usually a good candidate. A watermelon or a half chopped pumpkin may not be. I used a pen to conduct this experiment. I remember having something called a ‘space pen’ when I was younger and, even though I don’t have that very same pen, I picked up another and it almost immediately felt like the one I had had years ago. I liked the idea of having some special item that I use daily. I began this ritual by burying the pen under a pale moon’s light…
Escavation…
Modified, crafted, and customized…
Time in a secret hiding place in an area well traveled…
Given to a trusted friend or child to use or hold for a day…
And etcetera…
Your chosen item will take on a spirit of its own throughout this process, and to anyone who would contend that a World War I medallion bought at an antique sale or an Army & Navy store has more energy than an object you personally know has been on its very own adventure, you will likely disagree.
The experiences of your talisman have meaning, but don’t think you cannot repeat this process. If something untoward happens to your item or if it gets destroyed, don’t delve into world-ending sorrow. A bit of grieving might stir in your soul, but consider what would be in order for a resurrection.
(these are my jottings for a good Friday post of ideas that will be part of the book, DIY Religion)
I like the idea of fetishes or totems, items of power and focus if you will. I know that over time I have owned a number of items that became very important for me to have around. they gave me comfort in my ...familiarity with them. Comfort in knowing they were there.
ReplyDeleteAs an example, I happen to still have a handcuff key that my best friend Sam gave me the night before my wedding. I still carry it around with me. There are a small number of other items that I have similar attachment to. To me they have importance, and a certain sort of power. A tangible item that is imbued with intangible principle if you will.