Ocala Pre-Gathering Council January 5th

Morning family. I've been asked "what is Vision Council?". Traditionally in Ocala a council was called in mid-January. It was always at Farles Prairie. The family would gather to discuss issues such as banking council, water runs (all water has to be brought in), and other important issues. Proposed sites were brought up, debated, and a scouting mission went to those sites. We played music, made crafts, shared knowledge, and reunited with old friends. Sunday we would sit in circle and pass a feather. The feather holder has our undivided attention and the ability to have his/her voice heard and ideas evaluated. There is a facilitator. This is someone (hopefully without their own agenda) that mediates, directs the conversation, and helps everyone focus on the issue. We share maps of the proposed sites and logistical info. We plan Main Supply. The kitchens discuss their needs. In the last couple of years FS has sat in council with us.

Over the time I have been in Rainbow we have lost the Farles Prairie Vision Council site, and many others. The sites we do know are good we put in rotation as gathering sites so we do not overuse the land. Last year we added a new site. We need at least two more. Also the hunting season has been extended through most of January. Most places in the forest are unsafe or is regularly emptied out by FS.

This year's energies have been focused mostly on how we can overcome the violence at gatherings. This is our most important issue at this time. Some of these efforts, however, have riled folks up. A Vision Council was not put in the plans.

With this summary we (a group of family and friends without political agendas) humbly submit the proposal for a peaceful meeting of the minds in the forest on the weekend of January 5th. We have chosen and scouted a site for this that should be safe. I am not posting the site on the web, however everyone with a belly-button and love in their hearts are welcome. Feel free to message me at woodschime@yahoo.com or post comments here. Come back to our core values and the land family. Let's spread the love.

 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=an4yPkF9xx8"]green tara mantra 绿度母心经 - YouTube

 

A-HO! So we get a public Ocala family council meeting after all (see Barry's post). Yay! I guess my "hidden agenda" got accomplished. In light of this the January 5th circle is cancelled. And Barry... you owe me an apology. Your comments were slanderous and incorrect and that was no way to talk to your tribal sister, or any sister for that matter... especially one just trying to do what is right for the family. (copy and pasted to several places)