September 24, 2015 – Finland, Minnesota

“Hoo, hoo hoo…”

Almost as if on cue, we’re greeted by a horned owl as we walk towards the grove. My host is leading the way, torch in hand. He gently strikes the gong with a mallet before entering the druid circle. We follow suit, one by one. I’ve never met people so in touch with nature. He blesses the circle with the torch before placing it away from the center.

Druidism is free of any set practices or beliefs; rather, it embraces diversity and spirituality. It focuses on the divinity of nature. Fostering community. Cultivating love, wisdom, and creativity. Today marks the autumn equinox – an astronomical event in which day and night are of nearly equal duration across the entire planet. To my hosts, it marks the end of their harvest season. Enter a time of reduced stress, increased rest.

We form a circle around the center of the grove. Druids come together in circles (rather than rows) to affirm their unity, their equality. It acts as a symbol of one people, one world. One of us takes a sword around the edge of the grove, partially unsheathing it at each cardinal direction – exposing the blade to symbolically establish the space in peace. They recite inaudible words. Someone else repeats this process with some water, sprinkling it at each point. Another, with burning incense. This practice is to honor the four directions, praying for peace in each direction – the entire world.

After a brief meditative period, someone states whatever is on their mind. Maybe a recent event of some significance. Maybe something they are thankful for. I’m thankful for being a part of this, here, now. The ceremony reminds me of how out of touch I’ve been with nature. How most of us are.

Druids believe that all is connected and that we will harvest the consequences of our actions.

The ceremony concludes shortly after everyone has spoken their peace. One by one, we exit the circle, striking the gong on the way out. My host offers me the torch; I accept after briefly hesitating. Cross that off the list, I guess? Upon returning to the house, we part ways and I thank them again. I’m left feeling renewed, enlightened, and honored.

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” – Galatians 6:7