Light Your Candle

12.24.2016 By Liz Baker
Events

Dear Clearwater Family,

All the girls have their kaputs and sashes on, and the drum is beating as they make their way down the path on the end of the island into council fire. As I see each cabin walk down that path I am in awe that these girls are walking the same path that thousands of others have walked before them. I feel so fortunate to be part of this moment in which our traditions carry on after decades of practice. The fire is lit and growing, and together we say the Clearwater pledge. Our ceremony is underway.

img_5284The last council fire has a sacred feeling to it, a moment to cherish our history and look ahead and what’s to come. We celebrate this moment by lighting our candles using fire that now roars in front of us. As the sun sets and darkness settles into the council fire ring, Ellen and I light our candles using the fire’s flame. As we light the other candles with that flame, we begin to see the warm glow of each girl’s face. While the light is passed from one person to another, suddenly the cathedral of trees is lit with the light from each tiny candle coming together as one. Our community is bright.

In honor of an important turning point in Clearwater’s history, on the 24th of December, we light our candles signifying the light that has been taken from Clearwater out into the world.

So on this day the 24th of December, Christmas Eve, take a moment of reflection. As you light your council fire candle(s) connect with those that came before you blazing the way, those that came after you and carried on traditions, and make a wish for those that will come in the future to carry on the legacy. Celebrate the confidence, courage, compassion and community that each Clearwater person radiates.

Know that tonight, I am humbled imagining candles lighting around the United States, around the world, in honor of what we have built and what we will carry on for years to come.

Blessings to you and your family.

Warmly,

Liz

 

Subscribe to the Voyageur Newsletter