"Outward Bound Symbolism..."

"Yes, there are sacred things. A pine cone, a feather, bones, a herb - or even one of your stones. All are sacred because of the deep meaning given to them. Sacred things help you focus; yet consider where their real source of power is." Grey Wolf

On the final day... during some tired, quiet, yet very happy moments... I don't remember exactly what our Head Outward Bound Instructor said, but it went something like this: "I won't be presenting these Outward Bound Pins to any of you. They are not mine to give. Each one was earned by their bearer. They are just waiting in this box to be chosen".

For many of us who were more used to the usual practice of being awarded and handed any kind of parchments or trophy; this gave us real pause... These seemingly simple words and the significance of their intentions was just one of many potent experiences within Outward Bound and the adventure symbolism out there. In choosing our own pin the emphasis was on creating our own meaning. Then while sharing why we made that choice and how we came to be at that point, we took more personal responsibility for affirming our role in that journey...

Over the years I have time and again, season over season, found meaningful examples of the importance of such symbolism in our adventures and for our life journeys. The pin I selected looked a little rough around the edges, like it had already been worn, as if someone might have put it back after some other distant experiences... That is a symbolism I carry forward to this day in my wanderings with these Summit Stones. The gathering of these small rocks from many wild places started as one thing and has become, has evolved, to something very different. These little cobbles, these tiny painted stones hopefully reflect such spirits and meaningfulness of symbolism as that small piece of metal has for so many...

Then as to your adventure emblems my Friends, what symbolism, what totems have you discovered and created for your self from out there... What images have been branded within your mind... What beautiful realizations are there to be found within the potency, importance, and power of your adventure symbols and the emotions they bring forth for you...

Such symbolism is indeed sacred.....

DSD