Santiago, Ximena, and their beautiful children have become our family. Their hearts, eyes, and minds are open to the beauty and mystery of what it means to be alive. They have shared their knowledge of sacred plant medicines and ceremony with me, my husband, and some of our closest friends over the past 10 years. Santiago has taught me to that love exists on every level, and that perspective can change everything. He has taught me that there is no good and bad, no right or wrong, there simply is. Life is a delicate dance, an equilibrium constantly being maintained. The art of being present in our lives, of being helpful to all of the lives around us, and of showing up and facing the challenges of the Spirit head on without fear (or with fear, but face it anyway). I have watched as he has helped the men in my life find their inner strength, gentleness, and truth. He has really helped me to see that my life matters, that time is not fixed, and that anything is truly possible if your intention is strong.

Santiago’s wife, Ximena, is my role model as a woman. She is my sacred soul sister. The beauty and light that she emits are awe-inspiring. She embodies the sacred feminine and helps me to see that the woman’s power to create beauty and life is something that we can bring into everything we do, everyday. She taught me how to pray with my whole heart, how to place my hand on Patchamama and just feel the energy of creation flowing. How to say thank you and really mean it. An attitude of gratituted everyday! When I think of Xime, I remember the beautiful offerings that we have made togehter. The water, corn, meat, fruits, flowers, and sweets that we have placed in front of the fire with every intention to feed the spirit for those who are not as fortunate as us.

The best thing about Santi and Xime is that in addition to being role models that give you a glimpse of how rich and beautiful life can be, they are also very down to earth. They are real people with real struggles. They have worked hard for their entire lives to cultivate the garden that is their lives, and they are willing to share the stuggles and vulnerabilities that it takes to live such a beautiful life.

So, yes, I give these people and their healing center 5 stars on Facebook. Go to their lovely home and participate in their retreat. You will grow as a person and your soul will bloom. They provide a safe place for your journey, there is no better opportunity. Visit their nest, and let them welcome you to the sacared family that you forgot you have always belonged to anyway.