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It's March madness time, that means excitement fills the air. For sports enthusiast the air is filled with the anticipation of predictions, wagers, and the friendly challenges of who may win the office pool. The weather has certainly won the betting lottery with several 70 degree days. What's the saying, "In like a lamb, out like a lion," it will be interesting to observe just how loud the lion will roar over the next couple of weeks.
Besides the crazy "spring forward" of time, this month has offered an amazingly clear night for the full Lunar Eclipse. Those who observed that event were not disappointed . . . that is until mid afternoon when a nap was needed. This week the Spring equinox, Thursday, March 20 officially heralds in the astrological new year. With all the excitement March Madness brings, the warmth and planting of our dreams officially begins. If you have not yet made a Vision Board for this year, there's still time to make that happen. Simply retrieve a couple of magazines, crayons, paints, some scissors and glue and a piece of poster board (big or small.) After asking your heart what it wants to see happen in 2025, take a few deep breaths and have had it. Try not to "think" so much about it, just let your hands and heart do the work. The Deepening into Wisdom circle is Thursday, March 20, 6:30-8 p.m. you might consider bringing your Vision Board with you and share what your hands and heart created. What a beautiful way to confirm your intentions, goals and dreams for this year. Having others bear witness to your heart's wishes helps confirms your commitment to them. Weather permitting, let's "officially" welcome the beauty and richness of Spring this Thursday around a fire. Bring a blanket to sit on, your visions for 2025 and an open heart as we "officially" Welcome Spring! Hope to see many of you there! Vicky
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It is almost time to step out of winter’s cave and into the newness of spring! Moving from one season to another requires many changes which brings with it a host of emotions. For many, it is an opportunity to shake off old habits and routines and embrace a sense of newness. Much can be said about having a routine and the comfort that comes with knowing what to expect. And yet, the sameness often creates a bit of boredom. Everyone needs a sense of adventure, and that is best met by having a sense of direction, a purpose for what you are doing. In other words, to know where you are going, and what you hope to accomplish. Or, as Stephen Covey states, in his best selling book, The Seven Habits of Highly Successful people, "Begin with the end in mind."
I recently heard someone speak about life being like a GPS. Only two things are required: your starting place and a destination point; the GPS calculates the simplest, most efficient way to get there. Sounds simple, and yet when the verbal instructions are given, a sense of resistance or frustration may be felt. The hesitation within is simply a result of being in unfamiliar territory. Relying on the unknown can be uncomfortable, and yet, after discovering the reliability of the GPS to get us to our destination, it becomes a very helpful, stress-free device. In much the same manner, learning the ancient teachings of the seven sacred directions, life does become more manageable, more in balance. And yet, it may seem a bit "foreign" at first. That is because the indigenous peoples of the world were short on words and options. They were, however, resourceful and lived a simple, yet rich life. Nearly every early culture used nature as an ally, and with the assistance of the rhythm and gifts from these sacred ways, life was co-created for all the inhabitants on earth. If you would like to explore how to use those ways to prepare for emerging from winter’s cave and stepping into the newness spring heralds in, consider signing up for the “Using the Mandala as a Compass” retreat. The teachings are simple, and will offer participants the opportunity to open a door to new, yet ancient, way of fully living with all inhabitants of this beautiful, amazing earth. Read a bit more about this offering and a few comments by former participants on the Community Events link: www.headtothearttalks.com Space is limited, sign up by Wednesday, March 5. A confirmation with further information will be sent to acknowledge your participation. It is right around the corner: Saturday, March 8, 1-4p.m. sit with your heart and head, breathe, and the answer will be clear! Until then, yawn, stretch and step into the unfolding beauty of spring! "The season of Spring heralds in a time of growth; to realize the dreams created in Winter." The old woman, Book One, The Season of Spring, Head to Heart Talks: Rediscovering Your Authentic Self. Well, it appears Groundhog Phil was spot on; six more weeks of winter. Actually, we only have another four, since it's been two weeks since he made his prediction. It has been very good for me, I have a boat load of stuff to donate! Decluttering certainly does provide a tangible way of clearing all kinds of things one does not need while offering something someone else has been looking for, or needs. A nice balance of giving and receiving which opens the door to the one giving and the one receiving. . . just something to consider.
In lieu of the frigid temps and prediction of more forms of precipitation this week, The "Deepening into Wisdom" circle is canceled for this month. Check out our Community Events page and read about the "Using the Mandala" retreat which is right around the corner. It will be a lovely time to meet new people and learn more about how to create a balanced life. What a wonderful way to utilize the energy of the Spring Equinox and prepare to put your dreams into the richness of another walk around the Medicine Wheel of Life. If this sounds like something you are interested in, go to our contact link and send a note to Vicky. More information will be provided in order to help you prepare for this event. In the meantime, chalk one up for Phil and enjoy the last few weeks in your cave. You might want to checkout your closets, drawers, and storage places to see what might be ready to find a new home with someone looking for that precise item! From my heart to yours, Vicky "There are places in the Heart only silence can describe." The old woman Head to Heart Talks, book one, from the story, "Giving and Receiving." Sunday, February 2, 2025 Punxsutawney Phil will let us know when spring will be upon us. According to the Punxsutawney Club, overall his accuracy rate is 39% correct, and that's going back to his first recorded prediction in 1887. If he sees his shadow there's six more weeks of winter, if he doesn't, it simply means spring is on the way. Here's another fun fact. The Punxsutawney Club says Phil is 138 years old. According to the club, Phil has never had children until just recently when Phil and Phyllis gave birth to two healthy baby groundhogs. The article did not mention the age of Phyllis, I can only surmise she is a "younger woman!" Good for Phil! They claim his longevity has come from "drinking the 'elixir' of life.'" Hmm, I suppose Phyllis is part of that "elixir?" I googled and found out Ramjit Raghav is considered the world's oldest father, having fathered children at the ages of 94 and 96 . . . another hmm, perhaps he drank from the same ''elixir' of life as Phil?
February is known as the month of Love, primarily due to Valentine's day; however, if we take a closer look at astronomy, the science behind the seasons, it seems natural the long nights of winter that began late December with the Winter Solstice, would bring a deeper sense of love as it nears its conclusion with the onset of the Spring Equinox March 20th. In actuality, December and February are the two months, according to mental health statistics, that depression is most prevalent. It makes sense since both months celebrate a closeness to those we love more than any other months of the year. Of course, the long dark nights and overall gray days also contribute to a sense of low energy. That is, unless one is using those winter months to dream new ventures, ideas, and plans to put in action with spring. So, what and how can February 2 influence our lives? Well, it seems fitting that if Phil does see his shadow it can provide a sense of hope; a stirring of anticipation that warmth, growth, movement is right around the corner. Each person determines their special "elixir." Much like the popular saying, "Life is a journey, not a destination," love is very much the same. Throughout our life we will experience one form or another of what we feel is love. Be it a pet, child, partner, job, a piece of art, favorite vacation place, a memory, or another passion, there are a variety of ways to warm one's heart. The bottom line is, each person determines what feels like love. With all those selections from which to choose, the one true source of permanent love is YOU. For some reason, it is often the last place we look. We search outside ourselves when all we need is within. Sounds simple, yet is one the most difficult and often scary places to look. With all that said, on February 2, are you ready to step out of winter's cave and determine what you need to make ready for planting your dreams with spring, or do you need six more weeks to dream a bit more? There is no "right or wrong" choice, there's simply what you choose. Your walk will astronomically begin with the Spring Solstice March 20, when Earth Mother offers the richness of her soil as a place to plant your dreams. We know Phil will peek his head, to determine if the "elixir of life" is to be partaken at that moment, or if he needs six more weeks of dreaming; what will you do? Finally, on February 14 will you purchase a small gift, box of chocolates, or have a quiet dinner at home? If you choose the later, make sure to set two plates, one for you, and one for a special friend. . .Yourself! One dish can be for the main meal, the other for a special dessert. It is all in what and how you choose to drink from what you determine to be the "elixir of life." Happenings: The Full Moon is February 12, it's considered the "Snow" moon. What a great time of surrender any old habits, old wounds, perhaps a difficult relationship. Utilized the Divine feminine within to assist you with balancing any emotional concerns that needs attended. And, those may be very good one that simply need acknowledged. The Deepening into Wisdom circle will be held on Thursday, February 20 from 6:30-8 p.m. We will be sharing stories that have enriched our lives and taught us the most. Bring an open heart, blanket for your lap and a story from your heart. A gifting bowl is present for those wishing to show gratitude for the sacred place Dancing Flame Medicine Lodge provides. You just may find this monthly gathering may be a necessary ingredient in your "elixir of Life!" Check our events page for more information and forthcoming retreats. "Being human is not easy; however, it is fascinating!" The old woman, from the chapter: "Weaver of Webs," Book two, Head to Heart Talks: Walking a Sacred Path From my heart to yours, Vicky Oh what a beautiful beginning to a New Year! As we are snuggled into the safety and comforts of our Caves, what a warm experience to look outside and see the abundant covering of the gifts from above. Of course, this is from my perspective; however, I am certain many others share similar feelings. The past few winters snow has detoured Indiana and only offered a scant offering of the white, fluffy beauty. There is an old teaching that snow carries the prayers from those on earth; perhaps more people are waking up to Earth Mother's changes. Or, perhaps humans have returned to a place of asking for assistance from a greater source. Whatever the reason, it is lovely to know we humans are realizing we do not have all the answers or solutions, and that something outside ourselves just may offer assistance.
Looking out from the warmth of our caves (homes), what a winter wonderland presents the unblemished truth, that clarity, simplicity and strength lies right in front of us. Despite any and all of the current situation in our lives, our communities, our country and our world, there is always the gifts from Nature to cleanse, purify and guide that stands with us. Those that walked before us knew the importance of being in right relations with "All our Relations." It may be time to consider those words; the truth in front of each of us is whether to accept or ignore those teachings. From my humble perspective, the snow offers a reminder that, the Warmth of Snow, and the presence of our winter's cave, provides an opportunity to reprioritize what is important and know for certain, what we can dream will come to fruition. It may not come this year; however, trust if we do our part, it will manifest. How about looking through the window of your cave and noticing the abundance of snow through the eyes of a child. Maybe it time to remember the youthful times of wonder; pull the sled from the rafters in the garage, build a snowman (or woman) and simply be in the moment. Just as important, look through the lens of the old teaching above and see the abundance of dreams and prayers of so many. Remember, what you do for yourself, you do for others. You just may find your neighbors doing the same. Taking that action may just bring a warmth to your heart! Check out our website, and if you have any questions, comments, or request, please use the contact link. We welcome your words and insights, or any gifts or teachings you would like to offer. We offer the Deepening into Wisdom circle as a place to share those gifts. Our first wisdom circle is Thursday, January 16, 6:30-8p. Everyone is welcome to check us out. There a gifting bowl for those wanting to show gratitude for the spirit that guides our gatherings. Read more on the Events link. Until later, here's to the Warmth of Snow and your Heart! Vicky "Looks like diamonds! Like millions and millions of Sparkling jewels!" The old woman, "Unblemished Snow," Book One: Head to Heart Talks: Rediscovering your authentic self." I woke this morning clearly aware I was snuggly settled into my personal cave. It felt safe, intimately my space and a sense of eagerness filled my heart. It felt comforting to know for the next few months time would be available to go into what is true for me, a place of rest, creating and peaceful time of year. Of course, this morning is especially special since the small ceramic Christmas tree of my mother's, is lit with colorful butterflies. The first thing I heard was, send a blog! I must admit, my desire to blog often wavers, with winter, the desire to create abounds. Here is what came through:
We have officially walked through the threshold of dreaming and entered "Into the Cave," heralded in with the winter solstice. In the North we have the opportunity to pause, reflect and consider what we wish to bring forth with the onset of spring. The quiet time and darkness of winter offers us an opportunity to slow down, go within, and consider what we wish to move towards, deepen into, or bring forth on our sacred walk around the Medicine Wheel of Life. Consider those words carefully, "Sacred Walk around the Medicine Wheel of Life." What, of anything, does that mean to you? Perhaps the phrase, "Walking a Sacred Path," feels more familiar or comfortable to you. As it is with words, the meaning has various interpretations all dependent upon one's personal understanding based on cultural beliefs, traditions and social norms. For this blog, what is important is to pause and consider. During the course of a day many words are spoken, read, listened to, and yet, it is the listeners personal interpretation that attaches meaning to the words. How you use your time each winter is probably pretty routine. This winter, consider what the word "sacred" means to you, then reflect on ways that word fits your life, both during the holidays, special times of the year, and in your day to day life. For many, this time of year is about setting goals, both personally and professionally for the new year. This winter, consider including your understanding of "sacred" into those intentions (goals) for 2025. My hunch is, there will be a different perspective with creating those intentions (goals) simply by adding the word "sacred" into the mix. From my heart to yours, Vicky "When we are grateful, we free our hearts to create new dreams and visions." The old woman, "Let's Do This," Book two: Head to Heart Talks: Walking a Sacred Path" It is that time of year when travel abounds! Beginning with Thanksgiving, families busily prepare their homes for the Holiday season and Black Friday opens the door to purchasing gifts. Here in the West Christmas becomes the focus December 25, followed by the Jewish holiday, Hanukkah, December 18-26, and African American families celebrate Kwanzaa, December 26-January 1. I recently became aware of Saint Nicholas Day, which is celebrated on December 6. It is often referenced as The Feast of Saint Nicholas and is honored by many Western Christian countries. Saint Nicholas of Myra, was a fourth century bishop known for his generosity and kindness to the children, the poor, and the sick.
Such are the diverse and heart-felt expressions of kindness, generosity, and an acknowledgment of something greater than ourselves. It is also a time to reconnect with our ancestral lineage and remember those that walked before us. As we enter this season of celebration our hearts are given the opportunity to move our focus to something truly heart-felt both from our past memories and stories that were shared by our elders, to the present moment of giving. It is a beautiful opportunity to step away from the "comings and goings" of current events and focus on what brings happiness and joy to our hearts. Most importantly, is the re-membering of our loved ones, and reconnecting to our hearts. This Holiday season, offers a time to hit the pause of button of everyday life and recall the beauty of simple things; making cookies with Grandma, listening to the stories Grandpa shares about his childhood, the silly sayings he may have repeated, and what he knows of the tradition of his culture. Just as rewarding is observing the little kid in each of them as they share these memories. Holidays offer us the priceless gift of really honoring where we are from, what our culture truly holds important and why such traditions continue. In a world that seems to be in a blender of issues and concerns, getting to the core of what is truly important, is vital to our understanding of ourselves and others. It offers a deeper understanding of the many cultures in our country, which may, if we pay attention, deepen our respect for the diverse world in which we live. If we will use this time to see the joy of genuine, childlike love and acceptance, without judgment, this Holiday season just may reawaken our heart to the deeper truth of life, love and connection to the divine Flame of Love from which we were each conceived. Considering these simple truths will make the trip, "Over the river and through the woods" (to Grandmother and Grandpa's house) a more enjoyable and heart-felt event. Those of us at Dancing Flame Medicine Lodge, wish the visitors to this site, to our gatherings and offerings a very Heart-felt Holiday Season. May the joy of the season prepare each of us for entering the Cave of Winter on December 21, to your true North direction. It is during the winter season we have the opportunity to dream of ways the magic of Truth and Love of this season may be carried into the place of new beginnings, Spring. To dream well, Remember to Tell your Head, it's job is to remember your dreams and Let your Heart lead the Way. It is then we can begin a new round on the Sacred Wheel of life, and "Walk our Sacred Paths" fully rested and prepared to carry those dreams into 2025. From my heart to yours, Vicky " Whispers of our soul bring deep Truths from the wisdom within," The old woman "Let's do this," Book Two, Head to Heart Talks: Walking a Sacred Path The harvesting of Fall's gifts is nearly complete and the busyness of preparing for family gatherings begins. "Frost on the pumpkins" has yet to happen; although we know the time is near. For those of us in the Midwest, the coolness of October's weather has offered our hearts a time to enjoy touring around the landscape to observe Fall's colorful display. In light of the devastation that occurred for our southern friends, it is time to reach into our hearts and pockets to offer a "hand up." Check out reputable organizations of first responders to see what is needed. Chances are some of the items most needed may be in your closet or food pantry. And, do not underestimate the power of gratitude. Look around your life and notice the many blessings you and your family have, that is a great place to begin to help those that have lost everything.
As we conclude October and begin November a couple of points to pause and consider: Halloween, All Soul's Day, Day of the Dead and All Saints Day are an opportunity to show respect for those in the afterworld, other side, or whatever word fits your personal view of the spirit world. While each of these celebrations are practiced differently, the common theme is to show respect and remembrance for those no longer in a physical body. October 31 kicks the celebrations off with Halloween, while November 1 and 2 are designated for the remaining three celebrations. If you are interested, search each one to learn a bit more about them, I'm certain you will find it most interesting. Yet, again, examples of how similar, rather than different, we all are. November is also National Native American Heritage month. It is a time to recognize the history, culture, and achievements of the original inhabitants of the United States and their descendants. November is also a time to honor veterans who have served to defend out nation. Oh, and remember to VOTE, Tuesday, November 5! We are fortunate to live in a country where every person has an opportunity to let their chose be known. Remember, if you do not vote, you cannot complain about whoever becomes our next President. Lastly, Thanksgiving is November 28. While is seems to be overshadowed by Black Friday and Christmas, this day offers an opportunity for friends and families to gather, reconnect and remember those with whom we share a common thread. It is a time to set aside any differences and see the hearts of those in attendance. During these unusually stressful times of great upheaval and change, we must go into our hearts, look at the eyes of those around the table and see the good. Life often brings wounds, sorrows and disappointments. Use this opportunity to realize like each of us, those around the table have also faced challenging times. Wouldn't it be wonderful to offer, if only for that day, grace to everyone in attendance. Despite our differences, we need each other, we need our hearts to be open and willing to forgive and to be forgiven for whatever wounds created the chasm between any family member or friend present. Life is too short to waste the precious time we are given with any bitterness and/or regret. As the scriptures of the Bible states: "those who are without sin, caste the first stone." Really consider those words and perhaps Thanksgiving of 2024 will be one to remember; to turn a corner, end a chapter and start a new page. Remember to check our website for information on various healing ceremonies and offerings, teachings, information pertaining to the "Head to Heart book series, the Clan Mothers, and valuable resources available to assist you as you Walk the Sacred Path of Life. Here's to helping heal the world beginning first in your heart. and then with those you hold dear. And, remember the wise words of Jimmy Hendrix, "When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace! From my heart to yours, Vicky Midway through October? I ask myself how these months seem to fly by. My mother used to tell me, “The older you get, the faster years go by.” Well, she was absolutely correct. Although, I hear younger people saying the same thing. It seems life is moving at a rapid pace for everyone on the planet.
In my “neck of the woods” nearly three quarters of the crops are harvested. With such dry conditions, a plume of dust hoovers over the land as farmers diligently work the fields. Being a farm girl, I love observing these dedicated men and women who honor and respect this beautiful planet, and enjoy knowing their efforts feed so many. Of course, these crops not only fill the bellies of people, these rich crops are used to create many useful and sustainable by-products. Hats off to these dedicated, hard-working farm people. One bumper sticker sums it up well, “If your belly’s full, thank a Farmer.” October will conclude with the “spooky” holiday of Halloween. Such a festive time of year when children (and big kids) dress up in all sorts of costumes and make believe their someone or something else. Halloween dates back some 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain. This festival marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of the “darker” half of the year. The word Halloween is a combination of the Scottish words “hallow” and “een,” which means “holy” or “saint” and “evening,” respectively. You might research a bit more of its origin and discover some other interesting facts. Pondering these holidays are a great way to see the common ways many cultures share in celebrating the same concepts and ideas; just in different ways. It is, indeed, true, we have more in common than we have differences. Reminders: Thursday, October 17 at 7:26 a.m. the Hunter’s Full Moon heralds in a time to begin to gather what is needed for winter. It is a time of high energy; a time to Reflect, Release and prepare to Receive. Each full moon offers such a time to consider: What’s come up? What are you ready to experience, and What are you ready to let go of in order for your intentions to manifest. The Deepening into Wisdom circle meets that evening from 6:30-7 p.m. This will be the last circle for 2024. What a perfect time to use the questions offered with this full moon. If it’s your first time visiting this circle, consider checking us out this Thursday. Weather permitting, we will be outside around a small fire, so dress warmly and bring something to use as we sit on the ground and feel the connection to the fire, Earth Mother, and each other. Lastly, a reminder the deadline to sign up for the “Using the Mandala as a Compass” is Friday, October 18. Read more about this very interesting and helpful tool for guiding one's life on our webpage under Community Events. We are confident you will leave this event learning something “you didn’t know you didn’t know!” “Autumn heralds in a time to harvest, and from the West, we can hear the whispers of our Creator,” from Book One, The Container. “West: A place to listen to the ‘voice’ of our Heart,” From Book Two, The Compass |
Vicky Kelm WilliamsI find people absolutely fascinating! Archives
March 2025
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