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===Someone has captured a bit I was trying to figure out the best way to phrase this sentiment...and thus I use the might of copy/paste and bring it up from comments and up to this point..(original thread HERE)
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![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif) kalwein wrote,
Ruminations on 'Kin & Thresholds
Way back, during Thresholds I, and the other early Thresholds, there were many things that were avidly discussed by all (sometimes while thoroughly soaked by rain, esp. that first year). One of the things that was much discussed, with a good deal of reverence and excitement, was the idea that we were holding a gather on was a fairly rare commodity: a patch of ground specifically dedicated to keeping out mundanity. A space dedicated as being separate from mainstream society and dedicated to a meme that says that all spirituality/energetic workings etc. (that was so unwelcome and essentially homeless in most of modern day America) are welcome.
Four Quarters Farm is a SANCTUARY. In intent, in spirit and in Law. It's more or less run by Oren, who will tell you it is a non-denominational, Earth-Religion centered sanctuary.
The very term "Sanctuary" holds deep meanings, I believe, for those of us who started this thing. It holds meaning of being a safe place and of being a sacred space. Sacred, means "held apart from daily life," not necessarily sacred to some deity. In essence, 4QF has been built with the intent and is nurtured with the theme of providing a respite from the mundanity and banality that many of us may have felt slowly sucking away at our vitality.
This is precisely what we were seeking, originally. A place where it would be safe to gather, to meet, to explore, to relax, to re-energize, to recharge, to be ourselves, to connect, to disconnect, to be alone, to be together, to be... so many things. Four Quarters Farm was in perfect resonance and attunement. Here, one could let go of much of the effort required to keep the rest of mundanity's reality at bay. Here, we were far more welcome than those who voluntarily stunted their inner spirits, allowing gray realities to wash away their loves and lives. They were welcome, too, and we would help them where we could; but they were not allowed to hurt us, they had to approach with open mind, and with open hearts.
Other places then 4QF could fill this function, but not many. Until we make them.
So we all extended our arms and hearts to those we knew, anxious to share with those we knew needed and would appreciate such a jewel. Realign continued in his role as caretaker and facilitator, and we all brought new people with us. More were found, and we were well content, for we had reason. All signs were that there were more of us, who saw the worth and merit of what was being built.
Yet...
With time some things have worn away, some memories faded. Some are not as bright-eyed, some have died. Some perhaps are bitter and many have cried. Yet ,I ask us all not to forget what we have done and why.
Yes, change will come, and we should be right glad of it. Yet:
If we change, let it be to meet some new challenge, not to shirk from one,
If we must fight let it be for light and love and not with knives in backs and serpent's tongues.
If we must be children, let it be with awe and wonder, alongside those fits and sulks.
If we must leave, let it be with songs in our hearts and laughter in our souls.
Thresholds is consecrated, sacred space indeed. It is sacred to our Dreams. I pray that we be worthy of it.
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