| A vision quest is a rite of passage, a way of seeking and finding |
| meaningful connection with the earth and source of life. In North |
| America, it is an ancient practice of native peoples. Our Vision |
| Quest is an 8 or 9 day wilderness camping trip with a |
| 3-day/3-night solo fast or partial fast. It is an application of the |
| principles of the traditional vision quest for women in modern |
| western society, who are seeking their own healing, life purpose, |
| and spiritual connection. It is not a traditional native vision quest, |
| though we incorporate the wisdom of ancient teachings. |
| |
| One or two preparatory meetings are held ahead of the time of the |
| trip (see Schedule). During these gatherings participants get to |
| know the Quest guides (Linda is assisted by Tree Andrew) and |
| one another, clarify their issues and intentions, and review |
| information about supplies and other logistics. |
| |
| On the first day of the Quest we carpool to a wliderness area. We |
| establish a basecamp there. The next two days are filled with story |
| circles and structured time on the land. The circles provide each |
| person with support to feel strong and clear about facing the |
| challenges of her solo time. On the morning of the fourth day, each |
| person leaves the basecamp and goes to her chosen place to remain |
| in solitude for three days and three nights. The solo is a |
| contemplative time that includes a partial or full fast with water. |
| The Quest guides remain in basecamp offering physical and |
| spiritual support as needed. |
| |
| Upon returning from her solo, each woman is welcomed back and |
| respectfully asked to share the story of her time of solitude. We |
| mirror each person's story, and help each person identify what she |
| learned and what she will bring back to her life in society. |