Summer Ritual

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If we want to restore our relationship to the Earth, we need to get to know Her once again. The only way to get to know anyone is to spend time with them. When was the last time you allowed yourself to simply be with the natural world as an appreciative observer? When is the last time you actually felt yourself to be an integral part of the Earth? When did you last hear the Earth's voice speaking to you?

Thomas Berry speaks about the need to come to know the specific Bioregion we find ourselves living in. The geological, climactic, topographical qualities of the part of the Earth we inhabit. What is special about it? Unique to it? What are its needs and limitations? How can we live within the scope of these requirements? How can we make our presence a force that enhances our local Bioregion rather than destroys it?

Are you intimate with the mountains and hills that surround you? The local water source? Can you name the flora? Identify what is indigenous? There is no time like the summer to introduce yourself to your neighbors of other species. The summer ritual is about doing just that.

Intention:

Take time this summer to simply be with and take in the Earth. Find a place that is special to you where you can make yourself present to Her. It may be a tree, a riverbank, a forest grove or a beach. Visit this place often.

Invocation:

Dear Earth, Mother of all, I am here to renew my relationship with you. I come with the openness of a child, where discovery is primary.

The Ritual:

Be there, in this special place, as silent witness. Open yourself to Her. Are there things you notice? Are there things that surprise you? Don't think. Feel. It may be painful. Many of us struggle with intense guilt and have therefore disconnected ourselves but we must push through this pain and get ourselves to a place of listening once again.

She has the answers.

What is it that She is trying to say to you? What is it that you have to say to Her? Capture an image you can carry with you to remind you of your commitment, your renewed connection.

Ending:

Thank the earth for the gift of life, for the beauty that surrounds us.