(The header picture shows Veronica, don Alberto and Atik at Ingapirca in 2014.)
We are very sad to have to let you know that don Alberto Taxo transitioned into another reality at the beginning of February this year, 2022. He asked me to write a book in English about his life and teachings that was published one week after his passing. It also includes reflections by his long-time students about how he changed their lives.
The Way of Abundance and Joy: The Shamanic Teachings of don Alberto Taxo, by Shirley Blancke
Published by Inner Traditions
When the winds blow very strongly against us, when difficulties are very strong against us, we can fly higher. That’s what I learned from the condor. The condor waits until there’s a strong wind against him, because he’s the largest bird in the world, and when there’s a strong wind against him, he throws himself in the void and flies higher.
Don Alberto Taxo is a master Iachak* of the Atik (Kichwa) people from the Cotopaxi region of Ecuador. He was given the highest honor of Master Iachak by the Shamanic Council of South America. He generously shares ancient Andean wisdom and practices with people who seek happiness, balance and fulfillment. Through simple habits and practices in daily life, he teaches us to feel the sacredness of each moment and every place.
*A “Iachak” is someone who embodies and shares the wisdom of his tradition for the benefit of others, acting as spiritual guide, healer and leader of the community.
Don Alberto Pandemic Speech, May 2020 (link)
(Speech Translation link)
Loma de Ensueños—Hillside of Dreams A land reclamation project to be continued in don Alberto’s ancestral area near Mt. Cotopaxi in Ecuador
This video shows the beginning of the project.
Visit HillsideOfDreams.org.
Interview of Taita Iachak Alberto on the Web
The Global Oneness Project interviewed don Alberto at his home in Membrillo, Ecuador, some 15 years ago. Watch the beautiful 5-minute video or the full interview. (Also on KarmaTube and YouTube!)