I came back from the relative peace (ok some anxious moments but on the whole peaceful and even blissful at times) and quiet of a vision quest focused on nature, beauty, and the Goddess to numerous emails about the latest political hassle in CAW. Let me tell you, that is a real shock to the system. At the same time I began to eat solid food (soft-boiled eggs and ramen) and my stomach rebelled. It hurt and my spirit hurt.
It certainly provided me with a clear example of the dangers of being clergy where politics can so harshly intrude on spirituality. I began to question all over again whether this is the right step for me. Luckily I talked with Jack who advised me not to second guess one of the parts of my vision quest - the ritual idea I was gifted with for my clergy challenge ritual. And of course, he is right. It is hard not to be pulled off center in the midst of people's pain, or insults, or the political storms. In the midst of the thunderstorms in my tent I held the white light around me for right protection then, and it is what I can do now to protect me from the political storms. And I must continue to go forward in good faith, to live up to my own vision.
Copyright © 2001 Kyril Oakwind