We hope you enjoyed the previous poetic posts of compassion and healing penned by the mighty Joy Harjo, incumbent United States Poet Laureate and the first Native American to hold that honor. A member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Harjo’s two memoirs are titled Crazy Brave and Poet Warrior, her latest musical album is I Pray For My Enemies, and she is the Executive Editor of the anthology When the Light of the World was Subdued, Our Songs Came Through. As stated, her works have the ability to unearth the truth and demand justice. And if all that isn’t enough, she rocks the Saxophone.
Regarding words and unearthing the truth, we enjoyed a surprisingly summery April Ceremonial Overnight Weekend with the super connected crew pictured above. Per Joy Harjo, we were accompanied by ancient songs and we celebrated together. Having so much to say on this blog, I always enjoy turning it over to the people, and so a note of great thanks to April’s mini tribe — Brett, Clayton, Leslie, Audrey, Liz, Lisa, Corinne, Anne and especially dear Autumn for the kind, clear words. We’re just about full for next month’s May gathering, so we’ll be looking forward to seeing you in June or July. And watch for a few additional summer classes along with a special August event added to the schedule in the next few weeks. Toksha
“I have had many other spiritual experiences and community gatherings, but Paul's Ceremony for the sweat lodge is different in that it is so physical, so applied, and so intimate compared to the larger conferences where the connections you make often remain separate from your daily life when you return home. The small group of 12 or less creates an atmosphere of tribe, where you quickly develop a family relation to the people you meet in just a short time. My intention was to release the sense of victimization, anger, and powerlessness that mars my ancestral line of its spiritual power and ability to realize potentials. Still in a daze on the drive home, the nap I took once I returned revealed I had received a healing. I would highly recommend this experience to all who are open and would like to thank Paul and the participants who sweated with me for creating a sacred container for Spirit to perform miracles. This was unlike anything I had ever experienced before and I will be returning for many more Ceremonies with Paul.” — A.M.