I
Traditional Hopi ritual: shell offerings in a small ash covered area
These ruins are more than a site occupied by ancient decedents
Sacred in the annual cycle of seasons
II
At first glance nothing to explain the reasons an Anasazi clan settled here
Who is going to fetch water, haul firewood, and other tasks required to live in such an odd place
why
Spiritual values, abundant crops, good karma
Before abandonment, a great kiva, living quarters, granaries, and trash midden
Complete with a large pottery sherd reflecting beauty that is more than simple utility
Today the mesa’s ruins are scattered mounds of rock
In-situ circumstances force a rewarding thought process complete with a dream-like trance
III
What is my spiritual mesa
Sunrises and sunsets with majestic views and brilliant night skies
The subtle colors of changing light on red rock
The cool shade of a juniper tree in the dry desert air
Merge spiritual and ritual
Something a shaman would bless as preparation for returning to a modern world
Eighteen years ago John headed west, settling in Heber, Utah. Focusing on the environment and giving back to community soon became as natural as his beautiful surroundings. Departing the corporate world in 2006 John immersed himself in a year of graduate studies at the Teton Science School, Jackson, Wyoming. Place-based education opened new perspectives on nature and spirituality. After graduation several seasons were spent as a wilderness therapy guide and conservation corps crew leader. Mentoring to these “kids” remains one of his proudest achievements.
Today John saunters throughout much of Wyoming and the Colorado Plateau migrating seasonally between deserts and mountains. Priorities include living in the moment and understanding/reflecting on the natural world.
