What is the mystery of the laughing waters?

17 Oct What is the mystery of the laughing waters?

I sit on a moss-covered stone throne on a temporary island in the middle of the creek, misted by the water hurtling by. Tiny sandy beaches with mossy benches, big enough for one person, dot the banks. Rhododendron and hemlock groves frame the creek to the water’s edge. I imagine the massive rocks being tossed downstream from the Continental Divide by ancient gods in the beginning of time, when the mountains were so high that they touched the sky.

After a strong downpour, the water are so high, I look across the raging Hickory Nut Creek at this sacred place – this wild jewel. “What is your name, great land? Please let me hear your voice. How do we honor and protect you? How do we mesh our dreams with yours?”

And I hear – “Keep the energy moving.”

As I wander along the creek I see the foamy currents tumbling over craggy boulders, waxy green foliage of rhododendron groves, leaf-strewn banks, fallen trunks and branches, an old neglected, un-pruned orchard of lichen-encrusted trees, an overgrown meadow with gnarly old grape vines pulling down hand-made post fences.

In the midst of all this beauty, I imagine the Laughing Waters Retreat Site arising next to the old stone ruins of a gristmill along the creek. I envision high-energy healing retreats, community gatherings and sharing laughter with friends and family. I see community gardens and trout ponds, meditative cozy corners on the banks and boulders amidst the fallen logs. I can taste the pure drinking water from the springs on the mountain and the creek-side hot tub grotto. I see this sacred land protected for future generations in its natural state, a safe haven for folks living in a small intentional community of green-built homes, abundant renewable energy harnessed from the ever-flowing creek, the sun, and the wind.

I say a prayer and ask the help of the land itself in supporting this dream. “Please speak and act through us, help us to marry our dreams to the effortless beauty that already exists, without disturbing the balance. Help us to create a safe haven, not only for ourselves but to share with others. Help us to learn how to attune to the great power of this land – the power that roars in the winds and waters – that shines down from above – to create vibrant community among humans, plants, animals, minerals and the spirit that dwells here. Help us to be one with the ever-flowing energy of the stream and the solid power that abides in these ancient mountains.”

And I hear – “The waters are so happy they are laughing…”