10/23/09

 

My heart has been burdened lately with the increasing number of people who are loosing their jobs they have worked at for years. Jobs are precious!! Having gratitude for what you have and making the most of our changing economy, requires us to be proactive and assertive of our needs.

 

One need not worry about how to keep it together with a balance of support and spiritual growth opportunities.Yes there is hope, however we all need to change our concept of "how it used to be" because that was yesterday and we are now living in today.

 

Today we can be open minded to alternative life "sharing". Some people look back at the past and say: "That worked, lets do it again" Barterin was one ofthose tings of old that worked! Bartering is a great way to get your needs met and to give something back. You can barter with co-workers, family, relatives and neighbors.

 

Opening the lines of communication to neighbors and strengthening these allies can be helpful and supportive too. Ask your neighbors if they would like to share services. You offer one supportive service in exchange for one supportive service they might be able to share with you.

 

Is there something you can offer your neighbor that he/she may need? Like shoveling their driveway, or cleaning off their car in the winter, or bringing them coffee every morning (since you make the best coffee in the world! and you see your neighbor leave for work at the same time) or car pooling, or picking up the groceries for the two of your families every Wednesday? Then you can ask your neighbor for something you might need.

 

I have bartered with family and co-workers on several things. It has worked out really well so far. One quick point to remember when bartering, always be clear what you are willing to barter for and what this exchange includes or does not include. In other words, be very clear what your needs are and what your understanding is of the barter agreement.

 

A good way of leaving a conversation about a barter agreement is to repeat back what your understanding is between the two of you. For example: "What  I understand is that you agree to make me coffee every morning, in exchange for a ride to work, is that our agreement?

 

This type of specific communication allows you to have an open discussion about your agreement. Be creative and have fun with bartering, it can be a source of stress relief in an unpredictable economy.

 

Audrey Bennett

 

6/15/09

 

My Trip to South Dakota:

 

I traveled to South Dakota the first week of June after being invited by an elder there who I was in touch with over the winter. He held Hablecheya "crying for a dream" on his property and does so annually. This was my 3rd vision quest, but 1st in the Lakota tradition.

 

Each perspective of this timeless ceremony and rite of passage is different and unique. However, the fruits it bears in ones life are all amazing, unfolding and ever present confirmation of the relationship we seek with our "Great Spirit" and "Mother Earth" and "all our relations" Mitakuaye Oasin.

 

The Lakota tradition of Hablecheya from this man's perspective is one of preparation, organization, attentiveness to detail, purification (Sometimes two sweat lodges a day) and courage to fulfill your commitment.

 

From day one through seven I was busy preparing in one week what many others had begun preparing for a year ago. I was thankful I met several people who helped me each and every day to learn about each preparatory process and understand the meanings. I am also grateful for the true companionship I encountered here in the tribal way. I went out there alone not really knowing anyone, except by phone. It was a leap in faith of a mission to fulfill the tug of my being to "go". I left there feeling "a part of" and grounded.

 

A vision quest is done for many reasons. It is a time you go out in nature in the elements, alone to fast and pray with intention. It is a time to connect with your personal purpose and Higher Being. If you have never done this in your life- I suggest you learn about it and do it -It is so important.

 

Our Western culture connects to TV's and clubs and noise. There is no room for time to "be" so you can "connect" and really relate to your life. Would you rather have someone spoon feed you or a child prepared baby food- or would you rather have real homemade baby food? One makes the same choice  when deciding to settle for "societies spoon fed map for your life" rather than sit in silence, and listen, watch and pray your life into being from a direct source.

 

When you are alone for a period of time on the Earth you can actually "hear" your own individual vibration. You see and appreciate the cycles of the day and night. You develop a greater respect for the elements and how everything and all the kingdoms of the Earth: Human, Plant, Mineral, and Animal work together.

 

A vision quest is a life changing turning point. If you can-embrace it for yourself!

 

I am Truly Blessed to have the opportunity to join others in this tradition.

Wopila my Lakota friends!!

 

Audrey Bennett