Today is the last Sunday of May and, thus Marathon Sunday here in Burlington; today's run, a yearly ritual, marks the transition to summer. It is a lovely early summer day, a high, cloud-flecked sky dominating the horizon. Such days are welcome now, after weeks of rain, especially as the week ahead looks to be … Continue reading Marathon Sunday
Tag: ritual
Christmas Eve
Awaiting Christmas
Shamans, Priests, and Crows
Today is All Souls Day. Throughout the Americas families and individuals will gather tonight, or tomorrow night, to welcome the returning Dead. Those who gather by family alters, or in churches or cemeteries, will bring with them wonderful food and beautiful flowers. Some will burn incense or tobacco; others will display transient handmade crafts. Many … Continue reading Shamans, Priests, and Crows
Ceremony to Heal Trauma
A group of close family and friends sits with a woman. The women in the group have spent several hours bathing and dressing her. Tonight she will step out of her old self and into a new life. Other friends sit or stand in groups around the room. They have come to listen as the … Continue reading Ceremony to Heal Trauma