In the Footsteps of Opossum

I just had an awesome wildlife encounter.

In Peruvian shamanism they say that when you are in ayni (balance) the universe actively conspires on your behalf. It felt like that…

I had just finished teaching this week’s shamanic class Bones, Stones, Feathers and Fur, and decided to make a quick tour of the garden before dusk and put the data cards back in the wildlife cams for any overnight visitors.

On my way to the first cam, I stopped for a moment to gently admire a magnificent yellow rose in full bloom. In mid-sniff I heard the sound of dry leaves rustling – someone was walking underneath the laurel hedge. I fully expected to see one of the neighbor cats emerge, instead I saw Opossum! He was about six feet away, and was busily engaged in searching for tasty tidbits among the plants.

I recalled reading that opossums don’t see very well, relying more on hearing and scent, so I stayed very still, and trusted to my shamanic allies to help me blend in with the landscape.

Opossum made a circuit in the area in front of me, and just when I thought he would head out, he doubled back in my direction to check out the fountain. He was now about four feet from me. The only separation was the yard waste bin and a bamboo screen. Standing on his hind legs with his amazing front toes grasping the fountain, Opossum raised his nose straight up up in the air. It was amazing to see the creamy white of the underside of his jaw and how long it was. I was not sure if he was trying to catch my scent or a whiff of the bin contents, but whatever he smelled was reassuring—he relaxed and continued on his amble around my garden.

I tiptoed out from behind the fountain to follow along very, very quietly. The trickling sounds of both fountains helped mask any sound. I definitely did not want to scare him, and tried to stay far enough behind that I could remain unseen. How incredible to follow along in the footsteps of Opossum!

Just when I thought Opossum was going to exit the yard, he doubled back again, and I had to quickly hightail it back to my former spot. Fortunately, the second fountain blocked me from his view.

After making his tour of inspection, Opossum walked right in front of the statue that was me, on his way to the trail he uses that would take him past my neighbor’s garage and into their yard.

As he disappeared from sight, I released the breath I had been holding, and marveled at my good fortune. I gave thanks to my allies for helping me stay invisible, and to Opossum for his trust that my yard (which I jokingly refer to as the Wild Reiki Spa) is a safe place to be.

Photo is from an earlier nighttime visit by Opossum.
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A WILD WAY TO HEAL
Rose De Dan, Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing LLC, is an animal communicator, Reiki Master Teacher, shamanic energy healer, and author. Her classes, sessions and ceremonial work are inspired by wild and domestic animals who have issued a call to action for personal and global healing.