Picture
The Light Undressing
The third and fourth rounds follow, intermingled with resting times of light, cool air and water. The scent of sweet grass burns, permeating our circle. Somewhere in those moments, I open my eyes to the darkness, and carried by the dull rhythm of the ceremonial chant, sweat soaking my body, heat singeing-my nostrils, I wait for a vision from the other side of the vail. I catch then a glimpse of an Indian brave on horseback in stillness amongst the Aspens waiting for a vision. His face is mine. The vision is a real one for me, foretelling of pride and despair, to be broken only in experience of forgiveness and rebirth. The heat increases now, the chanting becoming stronger. Steam and heat fill my mouth and eyes. In the darkness, there are prayers now for gratitude, healing, the earth, and peace... "Have pity on us, Grandfather." Then the door flap is flung wide open.

Walking back to my car I reflected on the sweat-lodge's role in the Native American spiritual tradition; a unique blend of cleansing, a guided encounter with the deeper levels of "Self" and Spirit. Once home again I wanted to collage a visual of my sweat lodge experience. Both "The Road Less Traveled" and "The Light Undressing" came together intuitively. And yes, I definitely intend to paint the Indian brave on horseback amongst the Aspens waiting for a vision.
 


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