This was the first year I attended Squam as an official part of the event management team, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Being away from my day to day work and home life for eight consecutive days with little to almost no phone coverage was a challenge in and of itself, but the week flew by and was filled with lots of work, but also lots of time for soul connections and fun. I actually partied so hard and binged on an unlimited amount of cookies and various other delicacies that I came home over three pounds heavier, happy as a clam, and in need of some major cave-time.
What I loved most about my role in behind-the-scenes Squam was being able to witness the magic from another angle. Instead of being immersed in the magic when we arrived, we got to create it. It felt like an incredibly special gift to be able to create "that Squam experience" for people on a blank (albeit beautiful) canvas. While we were setting up for the first couple of days, there were many times when we paused and thought "Oh, this would be an awesome spot to set up something special so people can take pictures" or "These chairs should be closer to the fire because it's going to be cold tonight", etc. That part was my bread and butter. I loved watching it all unfold when people arrived. Friendships were made, hearts cracked open, and women became vulnerable. It just never gets old.
After work there was definitely some wine to be had, and stories to be told around the fire. I spent some time with two decks of cards, tarot and animal medicine. My friend and new partner-in-crime brought an animal medicine deck of cards and I felt the pull so strongly to choose a card. A message needed to come through. I pulled bear on the docks under the bright sun, and it was perfect. Bear.
Bear symbolizes strength and confidence, and leadership. Bear spirit also signifies healing---both the healing of oneself, and using healing powers to help others. Bear represents hunkering down, but also emergence after cave time. Bear is there when strength is needed during times of challenge and difficulty. Bear symbolizes the immense power of inner strength.
Bear is calling to me, and I'm answering it's call. This Squam was a huge turning point for me, a real stepping into my power. I love how Bear encompasses a lot of dualities----being an empath and an extroverted introvert, I get it. I get the social time, needing to commune, and then I get the cave time, the needing to listen to my own voice. Bear spirit speaks to me. Squam speaks to me because it honors both sides of me.
I can't wait to see what type of magic Fall Squam brings. xo
