Dear Friends of MorningStar,                                                                                                           December 2011

 

"Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: You don't give up."  ~Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life

 

MorningStar embodies the  human and spiritual journey; from Julie, through whom the vision and intent of MorningStar was born, to the woman or man who comes for the first time and falls in love with the land, cabin, and solitude.  It is this community which makes MorningStar what it is.

 

MorningStar Adventures continues to live up to its name.  We recently closed the latest chapter, while turning the page to the next one:  Amanda has followed the call to explore other opportunities in learning, leading her, at least temporarily, to move away from MorningStar land.  She remains on our board and in our local women’s circle, will tend the bees, and help with our website and email updates. 

 

Mary recently retired from her career as a physical therapist and now, with Julie, is fully engaged as an employee in the day-to-day tasks of MorningStar.  

 

Brian and Karen Cool begin their 20^th year of contracting with us for needed physical labors including keeping up our firewood supply.

 

Our web expert Chris Gaidica has become an integral part of our spiritual community.  Our local women’s circle has been helping out with tasks, such as tending the flower gardens and providing lunch for our Elder Women’s Circles.  These vibrant women and men are interested in weaving their own skills and talents into the fabric of MorningStar’s life and mission over time.

 

The deep roots of MorningStar have held this sanctuary through the many changes of seasons, literally and figuratively, as we enter our 30th year*.  We stand in humble gratitude for the sustaining resources that have allowed this longevity; with open hands we watch the dawning of another new day.  We are witnessing how new people continue to find us and experience a sacred space that nurtures mind, soul, body, and spiritual healing.  There is the passing of the old and the birthing of the new; a steady flow that keeps the spiritual heartbeat of MorningStar alive.           

 

A significant portion of our budget comes as a response to this yearly fundraiser.  It is our annual call to each of you who desire MorningStar's continued presence. We need and want your help and participation. It is your generosity which sustains us.

 

With gratitude for your support and blessings for this season of celebrating the coming of the Light,

Julie Keefer and the rest of the MorningStar Sistery: Inie Bijkerk, Barbara Carvill, Sylvia Kallemeyn, Rebecca Kirk, Amanda Sutherland, Mary Weber, and associate Katie Reitemeier

 

* Save the date for our 30 year celebration:  9/29/2012