Although Red Lodge is a young non-profit, we are sprouting from deep roots. For twenty years the loose-knit community of women who founded Red Lodge have been coming together at annual gatherings to witness each other's commitment to personal change.  In the way of woman, we have bled, wept, rejoiced and transformed ourselves together, in service to all life. I am so honored to be a part of this amazing community.

I have also been blessed for the past 16 years to be growing roots in my Vashon Community.  And what a convergence of energy flowed through my heart when I stood up to introduce Red Lodge to Vashon at our Friendraiser last month! I shared this poem, which many have asked me to print:

So Why Red?

Red is the color we see when what's inside
Emerges to meet what is outside.
Red is the color of ruby lips, speaking words of love.
And red is the color of birth--reminding us that
Each of us was born from the red of mother's womb
We have this in common--
Our body knowing the deep red feminine.
Red is the color of molten lava
And the unfurling rose.
Red is the color of revolution.
And surely this is the time for a revolution of
Consciousness on our planet--
Time for what is deep inside each of us
To come to the surface,
Bringing up our wisdom and compassion
In service to Mother Earth.
Red sings to us a new kind of revolutionary song--
Inviting us to go inside and touch that tender place
That cherishes life,
That knows the drumbeat of Mother's heart,
And trusts we can do this together.

                                    -Kristina Turner, March 2008

SATURDAY JUNE 21, 6 AM to SUNDAY, JUNE 22, 6 AM      Burton Hill, Vashon

Turning South on the Medicine Wheel, Red Lodge aligns with international celebrations of World Peace and Prayer Day with a 24-hour Solstice drumming.  We are blessed to share our Mother Drum medicine and invite women, children, and men to join in. We will look for 2-hour commitments to hold the Mother Drum beat steadily for the 24 hour vigil. Together with Pipe Ceremony shared by Jim, Richard will offer the song cycle that has come through him as the Hold the River Ceremony.  Kelly is gathering materials so everyone can make their own prayer flags for South, for prayers, for peace.

We will gather in the cedar circle on Burton Hill, Vashon Island. Come for as much of the day as you wish. Campers are welcome Friday and/or Saturday night in the front field. Campstove and sink are available for your outdoor cooking.

We are also looking for people to help prepare the land, set-up, and spread the word about this event.  Hearth donations are requested. To sign up to hold the Mother Drum beat for 2 hours, contact worldpeaceday@wwrl.org.

SATURDAY MAY 25, 10-5, Lynnwood

Conflict Evolution Council has arranged this one day training with Stephanie Bell and Celeste Gabriel, two facilitators of Byron Katie's Work. The Work is a communication process that facilitates getting intimately clear with self and others.  The training is open to Red Lodge members who want to expand their communication skill-base and are willing to be  available this year on an as-needed basis to serve as compassionate witnesses on CEC Listening Council Teams. (For more info on Listening Councils see pp. 6-7 of April eNEWS, 2007). Previous experience in Compassionate Listening Trainings and/or NVC is recommended, but not necessary. Class size limited to 12 and the fee is paid by WWRL. Register by May 11. Contact: CEC@WWRL.ORG

 

At Summer's height, on the longest day and shortest night of Earth's solar year, we celebrate the completion of the cycle that began at Winter Solstice. Take a moment to reflect on your journey.  Celebrate victories no matter how small. Learn from mistakes, make a plan for improvement, and come drum together! For directions, contact: Calendar@wwrl.org

 

2nd FRIDAYS, 7 PM
Cedar Center, 906 Webb St SE, Lacey, WA
$5 suggested for facility rental + Hearth Fund donation encouraged

"The few and the mighty!" quipped our Program Chair Deb, with a grin.  The WWRL Board has whittled down to six women, as both Abundance Council and Communication Chair positions are unfilled and we are getting creative with distribution of tasks. (If you feel the inner nudge to step up, nominations for next year's board begin in September). 

Board members extend our heartfelt thanks to all the Council Members who bring their enthusiasm and dedication to co-create eNEWS, the website, and new programs!  All is well.