Darrin Davis
Darrin Davis grew up in the Mormon church, but now he carves his own path and helps others do the same
CAROLINE SAVOIE | Contributing Writer
CaroSavoWrites@gmail.com
Multicolored cushions, candles, statues and figurines are strewn about the floor of the living room where Darrin Davis sits criss-crossed on a pillow in the middle of the floor in his plaid shirt, jeans and bedazzled belt. The smell of incense and sound of tranquil ceremonial music fills the air as seven people sit on cushions and couches, ready to begin Medicine Monday, Davis’ weekly offering.
Wachuma!
Davis, a Dallas gay man, might not have stuck to his Mormon roots, but that doesn’t make him any less spiritual. And, he said, he thrives on sharing his spirituality with others.
Davis, who shares shamanic Peruvian tours and plant medicines with Dallas residents, said he grew up in a strict Mormon family and struggled with embracing his sexuality. This led him on a spiritual quest to find meaning and connection, which ultimately brought him to Peru and the world of plant medicine and shamanism.
He said his journey of becoming more open and unapologetic about his multifaceted identity, including his spiritual work and role as a leader in the LGBTQ community, has opened him up.
“I’ve always known I would be a leader; I just thought it would be through the church,” Davis said. “Now, I see that I’ve always been meant to inspire and guide others on their own paths of self-discovery and empowerment.”
Medicine Mondays
“Medicine Mondays” is a community gathering focused on spiritual practices, meditation and integration of transformative experiences. It is intended to provide “a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to explore their spirituality and support one another,” Davis explained.
The night starts with a rapéh ceremony in which Davis blows a tobacco powder into participants’ noses. Attendees first connect with the plant, setting an intention for their meditation. Then, they sit with the plant for
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