The Power of the Rose

The Power of the Rose - By Sandi Kimmel

Rosesoftedge

If I had to pick one life-changing event, I'd have to tell the story of the Rose Ceremony that took place by a waterfall in the Colorado wilderness, where a circle of thirty women each declared our desires, bearing witness for one another. I remember holding my rose in the air and stating clearly and powerfully, "I want to record a CD entitled Transitions to share my healing songs with the world. And I want to share this wonderful journey with a true life partner." The group sealed the intention with a resounding "Ho!"

After each of the women stated their truth, we plucked off a petal from the rose to represent a fear we might have. With one voice, we spoke the name of our fear, a jumble of words and feelings released as we dropped the petal.

The four and a half-mile hike back down the mountain felt surreal. Muscles aching and toes blistered, I looked

forward to the sweat lodge planned for the early evening. I pinned my hair up off my shoulders and entered the dark, hot tent with the others from this tribe of brave women. We shared our stories in the blackness, unashamed and unafraid to step forward into spirit. Powerful, emotional and purified, we emerged into the cool night air.

I took a good, long shower when I got back to the room, releasing dirt and sweat, all hard earned. As I let my hair down afterward, my roommate, Mary, said, "Wow, Sandi, you look like the Breck girl! Get out there on the deck and let me take a picture of you!" I obliged.

The moment Mary captured in the camera reflects the glow that can only come after a nine-mile hike in the wilderness followed by a sacred ritual. I'm in my fullest moment, eyes shining, heart smiling, soul showing, connected to the richest part of me.

That photograph now graces the cover of Transitions - Music to Soothe the Soul, my CD of healing songs, which I started recording five days after I came home from Colorado, and released in May 2000. Part One of my Rose Ceremony intention had manifested.

Three months ago, I met the man of my dreams, my life partner, my soulmate. I am completely certain we will share many joyful days in each other's love. Part Two fulfilled.

In every way, my Women's Quest experience in July 1999 opened a vortex of energy in me that continues to this day. Roar!

Author Sandi Kimmel is available for Keynotes & Workshops. For info click here

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