Honoring Each Other and Earth "One of the highlights of my summer. An event that continues to have profound positive effects long after the gathering is over." --Paul Greetings friend! Come and join us for this year's EarthStory celebration! Two decades ago we first started meeting each year in late summer to celebrate our connection with Earth and with each other. We gathered to share the joy and gratitude we felt for the natural world and to nurture our place in it. We also came to deeply listen, and share our grief and struggles in this journey of being human, especially at a time with so many environmental and societal injuries. We found that as we shared our stories, Earth's story, and our hearts, it was possible to rekindle hope and joy in spite of the burdens we may carry. We invite you, whether a seasoned participant or a newcomer, to join us in this co-creative experience. EarthStory will be held at Earthlands, a beautiful, secluded property in north-central Massachusetts. The site we use has an open field, outdoor kitchen, fire circle, solar showers, latrines, and lots of room for tent camping in field or forest, all surrounded by thousands of acres of woodlands. All activities are held outdoors, with shade and escape from rain provided by Mother Nature and by a huge canopy tent. An EarthStory day may include meditation or yoga, followed by a delicious vegan breakfast. A group circle usually follows where we express our thoughts, feelings and needs, and enjoy some fun and games. Small-size workshops, with the intention of sharing what we do for Mother Earth or amplify what we want to be doing, are offered by anyone who feels called to lead or co-create. Next, we feast on a luscious lunch, then taste more workshops and games in the afternoon. Spontaneity reigns and at times you may visit the medicine circle, go for a swim, pick berries, chat with new friends or old, or enjoy other group or solo activities. At the end of each day, we circle for a bountiful evening meal and most folks gravitate later toward the fire circle to share stories, song, dance, and silliness. The exact flow of EarthStory depends on the desires of the group, though each individual is always respected. Programming for children will be created by the community. As always, parents are completely responsible for the experience of their children. We hope that you will give yourself the chance to leave your "usual life" behind and come celebrate with us and Earth!