“Moon Dance”

The sun has dropped behind the mountains hours ago, slowly pulling the warmth of the day with it.

As the moon rises to its full glory tonight, its glow enriches the blue green patina of the primordial rocks. Images appear in the ancient patina, their luminosity glistening in the moonlight and enhanced by the prayers of the people that etched them upon the rocks, thousands of years ago. The soft calling of an unseen owl floats within the cooling night air. This nocturnal creature calls now to the spirits in this place, always asking who they are and awakening them once again.

Gentle astral spirits drift from the cracks and crevices of earth’s ancient rocks, like wisps of smoke from a smoldering fire… dancing again in the moonlight and answering the prayers of the people.

A line of ceremonial dancers appear here beneath clouds of lichen, complete with elaborate deer and antelope headdresses. All five dancers are joined hand in hand in a celebration of the night and the magic of the moon. The dance is a very important part of Native American culture, and these wonderfully etched images are a testament to the spiritual significance of the dance and the magical nature of this place. Also present is the time honored flute playing Kokopelli. The origin of Kokopelli is very complex and we know him to be a whimsical and mythical creature, which is present in many celebrations and rituals. Most often, the Kokopelli as a symbol of fertility and not just a symbol of human fertility. The Kokopelli’ s magic encourages animal fertility as well, and he is often depicted spreading seeds, promoting crop growth, and bringing summer warmth and rain. However, on this night he leads a line of dancers in a celestial celebration.

This site is filled with animal spirit helpers and on a moon-filled night like this, animals that normally bed down for the night take advantage of the moonlight, continuing to forage and travel in the cool night hours. If you find yourself out on a night like this, and happen to witness the chasing of two mighty elk or the tumbling play of coyote pups in this mystical light, it is conformation that the spirits are present and have allowed you to join in their Moon Dance.