For example, in the course of a summer solstice sweat-lodge at Temenos, a young folksinger expressed the grief and horror we all felt for the murder of a close relative of one of the participants. More visibly than in most toasts, the traditional sweat-lodge ceremony undergirded the immediate need with healing dignity and cosmic reference. Many years later, our grandson was with us to welcome an Irish Stanley insulated wood-stove with Irish blessings. When the propane was connected, gas light, gas stove and refrigerator all were baptized with wine and rattles. In each case the basic structure was silence, thanksgiving, and a dedication of the appliance, with varying accompaniments of song, wine and dance, and time for everyone who wished to respond to the symbolism.
Beginnings are easy to celebrate.
In October on the occasion of moving into winter quarters, we danced our thanks to the Lodge. Movement felt more appropriate than words as we carried candles in procession behind the person carrying an empty basket around the space which had facilitated so many joyful occasions since its opening the previous June. A different kind of issue in relation to unexpected ceremonial occasions involves preparation and inspiration. There is a dimension of grace which seems unpredictable, which cannot be coerced. This happened at Temenos when two European women came wishing to unite with each other in sisterhood.