Kimberly's Memorial Pt 1: Lantern Walks
Faith means living with uncertainty - feeling your way through life, letting your heart guide you like a lantern in the dark.
Dan Millman
Cai’s mom KIMBERLY, loved the Martinmas Lantern Walk celebrated by Waldorf schools in November, which is why we chose to organize one in her memory.
Why did she love it, what is it, what is involved, what do you need to prepare? Read on.
Why did Kimberly love Martinmas?
There is something magical about Waldorf Education in early childhood; it is deeply connected to the rhythms of nature and aims to provide experiences that support the child's innate belief that the world is full of wonder and good. It encourages curiosity, self-awareness, and social responsibility. Through creative play, practical activities, circle time, outside play, story-time, and artistic activities, the children gain a sense of self, place in the world, and a desire to do good. This was Kimberly's world for several years. She was surrounded by fresh faces, silks, and felted creatures, a life filled with stories of little folk and songs of the cadence of the earth. Her job was to fill her space with beauty and goodness. It touched her and mended many of the tears of her own fabric.
Martinmas, in particular, was a potent festival for her. St Martin is the patron saint of beggars, drunkards, and the poor; the story of him tearing his cloak in half to give to a beggar who was freezing to death resonated. However, what impacted her most was the festival's essence. A light shines from within us all and, as the days shorten and we approach the dark of winter, it needs to be kindled and protected. The festival also serves as an analogy for the importance of community, each of us being one small light; however, when we come together, we shine brightly.
She first came across the festival in Anchorage, and nowhere was this need to look after the light within and come together to shine bright so evident. Because of this, the level of reverence the festival acquired from teachers, children, and parents alike was transcendent. Walking through the beautiful school grounds, everyone carrying their lantern and singing sweet songs was enchanting. The hush allowed reflection and the ability to feel the awe of the moment, which was wonder-filled and intoxicating. I suspect she felt a connection to something much bigger. It was calming and healing and let us know we were going to be alright.
So what is it, and what is involved?
As a class/school, we would meet after dusk wearing warm clothes and having eaten. The teacher would bring everyone together, explain what would happen, the festival's significance, and help practice a couple of the songs. Next, we lit the lanterns that we had made and decorated simply a week before. During this time, someone would lay out and illuminate the route with candles to act as guides. When everything was ready, the teacher would lead the procession and guide the songs. People did not speak using the quiet time to reflect and or be present. On completion, it was usually cold enough in AK that people would naturally disperse.
What we will do:
On November 4th, Cai & I will turn up at the Smoky Hill Shelter (Group Picnic Site) Cherry Creek Reservoir at sunset. (5:45).
Links to Maps: State Park Map Apple Maps Google Maps
At 6:15, we will listen to a few invited people sharing their memories of Kimberly, what she meant to them or what she taught them. The walk itself will take about 20 minutes. After the stroll, we will write down a wish or a message on a piece of paper that we will burn and send out into the world. Finally, we will finish with some thoughts from Cai. We anticipate the whole event to last about one hour.
What you will need:
Warm Clothes & Walking Shoes: hats, gloves, warm coats and comfortable shoes will likely make the difference between a beautiful experience or an evening of suffering.
A lantern: The underpinning intention of the ceremony is that we are carrying a real flame and have to nurture it and keep it alight. Traditionally, children used gourds and pumpkins; typically, a decorated mason jar with a tea-light candle is a contemporary solution. It is worth incorporating a handle because the glass can get hot.
A camp chair: There is some seating at the pavilion; having our own chairs will give us more options.
A thermos with a warm drink: We would typically provide something. However, in times of COVID, we want to avoid potentially sharing more than a drink.
Ideas for Making a Lantern:
Doing this will cause Kimberly to smile. She would love seeing you do something a little different to your norm.
www.boho-weddings.com tutorial tin can lanterns
lusaorganics how to make paper lanterns
bellalunatoys.com how-to-make-a-colorful-candle-lantern-for-martinmas
happywhimsicalhearts.com make waldorf lantern
badgerbalm.com tissue paper lanterns
Ideas for Buying a Lantern:
You can google "candle lantern," click on shopping and check the available nearby box. I usually sort by Price low - high. I encourage you to find one with glass sides to keep the wind at bay.
Or a few others:
CherryLaneCompany Mason Jar Lantern