A Horizons reader wrote in and asked:\u00a0 Once a month\u00a0I\u00a0attend shamanic ceremonies held\u00a0by\u00a0American friends.\u00a0 They have a potluck meal before the ceremony.\u00a0 I know that\u2019s a big Western social tradition, but it feels more like a cocktail party atmosphere than a sacred gathering to me. I’ve done other sacred ceremonies with indigenous groups, and the fasting that\u2019s always done before ceremony is important.\u00a0 What is your take on the\u00a0topic?\u00a0 I replied: \u201cI spent decades following a primarily Eastern faith path, which I realize is very strict in\u00a0traditional “rules” for ritual, fasting, and no idle talk at ceremony time or in the temple.\u00a0 I think the payoff for that laser focus is measurable in terms of personal growth, understanding\u00a0and outcome. I think if it resonates with you, then attend and be open to what might come of it if you don\u2019t judge it and think it should be anything other than it is.”<\/p>\n