The Healing Journey of Michael, a Modern-Day Sundancer
In the heart of Devon, amidst the rolling hills and lush greenery, lies a sanctuary where ancient traditions meet modern spirituality. Michael, a man with a profound connection to both worlds, stands as a beacon of cultural fusion and healing. Known as Ska Wičháša hówakȟaŋ (White Man Weeping) among the Oglala Lakota, he is not just a founder, a TEDx speaker, or a best-selling author, but a guardian of traditions and a bridge between cultures.
For over 16 years, Michael has traversed the Red Road, carrying the sacred Lakota medicine within him. His journey, rooted in reverence and respect, has brought him to the forefront of spiritual leadership in the UK. In his ceremonies, he seamlessly integrates elements of native Lakota and Celtic cultures, crafting a tapestry of rituals that transcend boundaries and unite souls.
The Sundance, a sacred ritual among the Lakota, holds a special place in Michael’s heart. As the sole initiated Lakota Sundancer in the UK, he bears the responsibility of upholding its sanctity while adapting it to resonate with the land and people of Devon. Through sweat lodges, pipe ceremonies, and vision quests, he guides seekers on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing.
What sets Michael apart is his ability to bridge seemingly disparate traditions, weaving them together in a harmonious symphony of spirituality. Drawing from his Lakota heritage and his deep connection to the land, he infuses each ceremony with elements of Celtic wisdom, honouring the spirits of the land and ancestors who have walked before us. In doing so, he not only preserves the integrity of each tradition but also creates a space where individuals from all walks of life can find solace and connection.
But Michael’s work extends beyond the confines of ceremony. As a TEDx speaker and best-selling author, he shares his wisdom with a global audience, inspiring others to embrace their own spiritual journeys and cultivate a deeper connection with the world around them. Through his words and teachings, he invites us to explore the depths of our souls and rediscover the interconnectedness of all things.
In addition to his spiritual work, Michael and his team at The CIP Project extend their reach to support over 2000 people every year in prisons, schools, and poor communities across the UK. Through workshops, trainings, and outreach programs, they offer training and support to those in need, empowering individuals to heal and transform their lives.
In a world plagued by division and discord, Michael’s message of unity and healing is more relevant than ever. By honouring the wisdom of indigenous traditions and embracing the diversity of human experience, he offers a vision of hope and reconciliation. Through his tireless efforts, he reminds us that we are all interconnected, bound together by the threads of love, compassion, and shared humanity.
As we journey through life, may we draw inspiration from Michael’s example and strive to build bridges of understanding and empathy. For in embracing the richness of cultural diversity, we not only heal ourselves but also the world around us. And in the words of Ska Wičháša hówakȟaŋ…
may we walk the Red Road with humility and gratitude, honouring the sacredness of all life.
Main – Photo by Louis Tripp on Unsplash
About the Author: Sarah Vaughan Griffiths
