ABSTRACT
Intellectual and other types of shamans might not describe it this way, but it is clear from reviewing their life histories that, in some respects, they all answered a "call" to do the work that they ended up doing. In effect, they are answering a call to purpose that is uniquely theirs. People's own callings may guide people away from or towards traditional paths or careers. The idea of a "calling" is often associated with a call to a certain religion, to become a teacher or spiritual leader in that religion. Becoming a shaman can be a trial for some people, particularly in the early stages, as the shaman experiences the various difficulties that test his or her commitment to the path of healing. Shamanic work is intentional and requires attention to something beyond the self for the healing purposes.
