Sitting around an outdoor campfire can be a very special experience. Some of my best thoughts have come to me while gazing into dancing flames. In semi-meditative states I have mused about what others might suggest to help me unravel various situations.
Outside under the open sky, a campfire is very inviting and comforting. Listening to the crackle and pop of dry tinder, smelling burning cedar and pine needles, avoiding the smoke and sparks while trying to stay warm, has been one of my favourite natural pastimes. I have enjoyed many deep conversations with friends, time with my family and of course lots of sing-a-longs. Good memories.
However, sitting alone with my thoughts has produced different rewards. Since I will never know the answer to all of my life’s mysteries, I have sometimes wondered what my (wise great-uncle, business mentor, best friend) would tell me, ask me or suggest I should consider. And, with especially sticky situations, simply asking the Universe or Mother Nature for guidance has also produced wonderful results.
This practice of asking questions and then sitting quietly, listening, has given me new insights, different perspectives, even answers. I have always been pleasantly surprised and very grateful for all the new information. Also, not feeling totally alone has lightened the load on many occasions as well.
Now I regularly ‘invite’ my angels and mentors to join me around the campfire. As we plow through my list of what to do next, my excitement grows knowing that they are on my team. And they have assured me that if a campfire is not possible, a walk in woods, sitting by a babbling brook or listening to waves crash on a shoreline would be just as good.
Re-posted from 09/2012 and dedicated to my dearly departed sister Natasha.