Exploring this beautiful diverse country
has me wondering again how it looked and was cared for pre-settlement
I carry this question in my heart
as I tread lightly and with curiosity
in places which move me deeply
who looked upon this place, lived and sustained life here before?
where did they shelter, gather, feed, fire, swim, tumble with children, hunt, die?
when was this place last nurtured?
as I move across the land or find stillness in a place
I aspire to bring to my children the awareness of connection
respectful inhabitance, mindfullness and enjoyment
my gift to a sacred place can be coming in quietness, wonder and presence
to take the hours to sit and observe and feel the place and the stories in the air and water and plants
To hear the music of a place when the creatures accept you are there pracefully
And to send some love back into the earth and invite peace to a place
we are often rewarded with glimpses of animals
who hide from cameras and large groups
have you glimpsed a place after all the other humans have left,
how does it feel
without the distraction of other people?
As Cedar walked me around the park
I overheard snatches of a conversation
I share this with all due respect to someone who’s permission I could not seek
An Aboriginal Elder explaining how his ancestors used this area (Byron Bay coast)
“this area was the women’s area for raising kids and that.
Great seafood and rainforest food. You know the tea tree lakes to the south, well
thats where the women would go and sit and bathe in them. Tea tree is antiseptic
and perfect for women having babies and that.
The men would be up here in this northern area of the bay and they’d come here to bring the women
fresh meat and that.
I hope I have related that correctly. I don’t even know his name sorry.
William Ricketts Sanctuary Victoria
Its the reminder that all these places we inhabit have an ancient history that I want to focus on in my life on this journey
William Ricketts Sanctuary Victoria
Do you know the cultural story of your land or home area?
Being inspired by this song by dear friend Murray Kyle
RosaLindenTree 