Ceremony, survival day 4

We all woke up seperately, one at a time, before first light. Upon waking each wandered up, looking for a vantage before dawn. The East became pale, and the mockingbirds and robins sang in the valley. One by one each of us scrambled up the rock face and found the others at the high promontory, looking toward the dawn.





The dawn broke cold. When the dawn chorus wound to a close we finally rose and set about the work of breaking camp. We poured water on our fires, stirred the coal beds, and poured more water. We gathered up our bundles of dogbane and seep willow, bundled up our clothes and water filter, and walked out.

We had stashed some snacks at the cars -- coconut juice, and fruit, and even some nuts. Many of us chose to forgo the food, however. We were feeling light and and alive with the energy of the acorns and the food plants, the waters of the land, the dawn light and the birdsong. The thought of eating commercial food so soon actually made some of us sad.

We piled into cars and drove the hours-long way back to the place that the elders would receive us. We were greeted with song, offered water and cleansing herbs to wash of our road dust, and gathered around a fire. We told our story and we were questioned about our journeys. We feasted with elders and friends and families in our nature connection community.

Our gathering lasted into twilight with us circled around a little blaze under great old trees. Just as the last word was said, the first drops of rain began to fall. As we picked up our fire circle, blankets and personal items, the rain came light and soft. Once everything was moved and all were indoors, the rain came as a torrent. Finally it hailed, and the drencher settled in for the night.