Circles

Yesterday I was involved in a smudging ceremony that was a reflection of those I grew up with in the north.  During special occasions when we would gather as a community, a Cree Elder would light cedar and allow the smoke to waft over each of us and say...

Great Creator,
allow these eyes only to see the beauty of others,
these ears only to hear the beauty of others,
these lips only to speak the beauty of others.

I have always loved that blessing and was thankful to be reminded that whatever struggles we may face, they are only for awhile.  That there is so much to be grateful for...that we can grieve and then move forward.  That we are all in this together, we have each other.

On Friday I had the great pleasure of being involved in a drum circle at work where we shared prayers for the safety of all who have been affected by the flooding.  It was so beautiful.  The highlight of my career at our public library. 

I've also begun working on some small monotype prints which I will share in a few days.  It's fun working in a completely different medium, and playing with watercolours as well.  Oh no...now I've said it, I'm committed. 

To see everyone come together in difficult times...this really has been an incredible week in spite of the difficulties.

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