We just returned from a trip to a few islands in Greece. Our trip concluded in Athens. As a Shaman, that land, for me, is filled with energy. That culture has so many epic stories involving characters that were more than human. For me, it is not about their factuality, but rather about the energy of the land and the people who contributed to the creation of those legends. I find it fascinating and deeply enriching.

In that mood, as we took a cab from the Athens airport into the city, I started a conversation with the Greek driver. He quickly dismissed my amazement with his ancient culture, telling me that the Greeks of those times were smoking hash and making things up. He said those people walked around stoned all the time, seeing things that were not there.

I respectfully and very delicately pushed back a little, saying that regardless of their habits, those people had managed to create advancements in civilization that still amaze the world today. He replied that he was a serious religious and family man and had no time to ponder such things. That brought our conversation to an end and helped me observe how strongly our core beliefs can shape our experience of the external world.

In Andean Shamanism, we use the concept of “Anja.” It is understood as “one’s truth.” We don’t believe that a person can be wrong in their beliefs. We understand that all humans are here on Mother Earth learning, and as they move through their experiences, they will create their own “Truth.” This is perfect for the soul’s evolution. It doesn’t need to be verified or logical; it only needs to serve that purpose.

I choose to believe that the taxi driver’s Truth—his Anja—is serving him perfectly at this time in his evolution, and I respect and encourage that process.

As for me, my Anja tells me that on those islands, something of a grander consciousness was taking place among the people of those ancient times. They interacted with energies that co-created a beautiful culture that heavily influenced the evolution of modern civilization.

I believe those energies are still around, still very active, and that we are still co-creating with them.