A Sacred Result of Alignment
I met Shawn in the early fall of 2020 in a container of men seeking alignment with themselves and the energy around them. We spent 8 weeks diving deep into our shadows, our relationships, and our perspectives.
Every man had a story to tell. Every man was carrying some sort of weight on their shoulders. Every man was prepared to step up and lean in. Our guides for this journey, Kevin, Luke, and Dan, gave us the perfect space to do so with their Alignment workshop. Soon our container became a Brotherhood.
Shawn was among the most active in the group. He was always prepared to share and often asked questions or took the time to connect with everyone based on their experiences. Shawn played a huge role in bringing us together - and in keeping us together.
Upon conclusion of Alignment, Shawn and another man from the group, Jason, decided to keep the container open with the continuation of weekly calls.
My time with the group meant a lot. I felt a lot. Often greeted by a wave of anxiety prior to calls, which crashed immediately upon joining the calls, I knew there was required effort on my end to keep that feeling alive - a feeling of community, brotherhood, and deep friendship. So, I started joining their weekly calls whenever I could. To this day, I still join when I’m available.
Now I don’t experience tidal waves of anxiety before every call. Each call is met with a new wave, a wave of excitement, curiosity, and love. I get to spend time with close friends, men I consider part of my crew. I get to hear about their experiences, gain insight and wisdom from them, and witness the parallels of every man’s journey through life. It’s extremely healing to have that space and to talk with men void of any judgment.
We also bounce ideas off each other, support our individual endeavors, and work together to contribute to collective alignment. As a result, Shawn organized a trip for us to meet in person and dive deep together. This wasn’t just any trip, it was a Voyage to the Sacred Masculine.
Shawn took us out on his sailboat for a night of exploration, both of the seas and of ourselves. Some men brought guitars and played music. Many of us took time to journal so we may carry that experience with us to the next chapter. We were surrounded by the wonders of nature and supported by each other.
As soon as I saw Shawn by the dock I could feel the brotherhood we already shared. It was like seeing an old friend after years apart. I was so grateful to be on his boat and in the company of other men like me. Any feelings of loneliness or isolation dissipated. It wasn’t long before we were sharing stories and having deep conversations that are too often held within.
Shawn created an experience for all of us. He gave us responsibilities so we could all be involved in the journey. We weren’t just passengers, again, we were a crew. It was a beautiful opportunity to learn something new while strengthening something I already know. I got to learn about sailing while strengthening my connection to universal energy.
We spent a good chunk of the day sailing before we found a nice cove to drop anchor in for the night. That’s when the magic started to settle around us. The guitars came out and creativity danced around us. We went for a swim and were kissed by the sea’s frosty lips. We swam ashore and explored an island and witnessed the transformation of our setting that took place along the changing tides.
When the bugs began to raid the deck we retreated below. Shawn lit sage and we took a moment to ground ourselves into the moment together before playing cards and sharing more stories. At the end of the night, we read some poetry and settled in for group meditation and final shares. I remember laying down at the end of the night with deep comfort and joy.
Our morning began with meditation and shares as well, which was a light and powerful way to start the day together.
On my way home I fell deep into reflection. I remain filled with gratitude for the experience, for the time I got to share with these brothers, and for the hope I have for future endeavors.
This is what every man needs. This is what every being needs. And I will remain grateful to Shawn forever for creating a space for individuals to come together to heal & grow alongside the sea.
The best part? Shawn is doing it again, and you’re invited. If you feel called to such a journey, I suggest you look into it. If you are beginning to delve into your spiritual self, this is the perfect place to begin. Shawn can offer a unique adventure and a space to safely explore the deepest parts of yourself and to find counsel in others who are doing the same.
I encourage to embark on your own Voyage to the Sacred Masculine.
