The Cave - Soul Shake Ecstitic Dance w dj Medicine Heart

The theme I have chosen for this sunday's dance is 'the cave' We all have our versions of the cave, the place to retreat to so we can grieve, reflect, rest and then return from to our lives renewed. At this time in particular, both in terms of the time of year and the recent events it seems a good idea to tune into which version of the cave we are finding for ourselves, and how we can all support those who lost their homes to find their own places of refuge. I wrote a little story to share: Once upon a time there was a fuzzy wuzzy bear who got caught in a fire and lost half his hair. “I feel naked. I feel cold,” said the bear to gray raccoon. “Look at my feet,” said raccoon to the bear, “There were so many coals I’ve got sore paws and toes. I can barely move anywhere.” “Well climb on my back,” said bear to raccoon, “Lie up on my bald spot, keep me warm and I’ll carry you.” They fled out of the smoke for a day and then one more til they crossed over a ridge and saw a cave, then it started to pour. They were cold, they were hungry, so so tired and sad, and out of the cave stepped a skunk on a stag. “Stop right there,” said the skunk, “this cave’s got new rules This is a place for the wounded who need sanctuary like you. If you keep your teeth to yourselves and tuck in your claws, then you’re welcome in too.” The rain became hail and more creatures arrived and the stag turned to a lion and looked in her eyes. “Great cat I respect you. Your hunt strengthens our kind, but not here in this refuge for all fleeing the fires.” The thunder grew closer, the lion and others they bowed, were lead into the mountain and laid down on the ground. In a wild spiraling circle they lay nose to tail, nose to tail. Some whimpered and quivered, some howled and some wailed, Then with a hum rumbling purr their breathing aligned, and together they dreamed for three days and three nights, and summoned a healing for their wounds, burns and frights. As the third night it passed the storm it passed too, and some of the animals rose - the ones who had more living to do. And before they left the cave at the entrance they paused, looked at the still ones who were moving no more. “Rest in peace, our time soon too will come, but not yet it seems. We're grateful for another few moments to bring life to our dreams.” Then one by one they moved on out into the light of the day, they sniffed out their new paths and they went on their ways. ❤ ~Luke Anderson *gratitude for the Star bear art by Cathy McClelland Warm up starts at 10am Hour and a half dance 10.30-noon dj'd by Medicine heart (Luke) www.danceawake.com *$15 suggested donation Full and partial scholarships available for EVERY dance for ANY who ask. We welcome people of ALL ages, colors, genders, abilities, orientations, and financial means. It is of mportant to us that everyone young or old have access this dance, and even if there is no money left in the scholarship fund for the day, you are welcome to simply contribute whatever you choose and your offering will be gratefully received. We also have work trade options available for people who would like to help set up & take down or be on the door. No-one will EVER be turned away for lack of funds