Fire Tender

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The hikers had stopped to rest for the evening; their exhausted bodies gave in to the end of the day and now they lay in a deep sleep next to smoldering embers, remnants from an earlier fire. Near by, several large bears raise their muzzles and get a whiff of the inviting air. They've found their prey. Like an alarm sounding, an unbearable chill wakes one of the campers. He refuels the fire and the soul, the nucleus of the outdoor home is set a blaze again. Binding the hikers together, the glowing campfire like the family hearth keeps them safe and warm. Respecting the fire, the bears turn and go in search of other prey. The Fire Tender, in tune, knew all too well that even when the fire went out a good many things can still go on.

In Native American spiritual culture, the Fire Tender plays a vital role in building and maintaining the fire for the Sweat Lodge Ceremony. Native Americans implemented the Sweat Lodge Ceremony to bring about mental, physical and spiritual healing as well as to get answers and guidance. The Fire Tender builds a fire with specific detail and heats several large rocks which are then brought into the center pit of the Sweat Lodge. Without the Fire Tender the rocks may be too cool or they may become too hot. Fire Tenders are in tune with Mother Earth and are masters at balancing the power of the fire.

Metaphorically speaking, I am a Fire Tender. In my closest relationships, I see that a lot can go on when the dim embers are ready to go out. Yes, predators are waiting, as dangerous as those bears near the hikers camp. They are a different kind of trouble;but, they too are raising their senses and sniffing. Ready they stand and watch as the fire is about to go out. It takes a sensitive Fire Tender, devoted and in tune that can recognize when danger is near. The Native Americans knew that their mental, physical, and spiritual connections needed heat as well as their closest relationships. If a chill is in the air, wake up, tend the fire and keep the soul of your closest relationships glowing.

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