Copyright 2002
Wilderness Drum, Inc.
All rights reserved Closer to the Earth
Steve Beyer Beliefs We bring with us into the wilderness all of our beliefs about the natural world and our relationship to it. These beliefs may change in the course of a vision fast; and it may be worthwhile to spend some time thinking about our beliefs, trying to clarify them, and perhaps sharing and discussing them with others on the trip. It is not surprising that some people on a vision fast have strong views; other people may be more tentative.  Think about the natural world itself. What is the origin of the world? Should we preserve existing ecosystems? Is it right to let forest fires burn uncontrolled, or should we intervene and control them? If you see a cougar about to attack a deer, is it right to warn the deer? Is it right for humans to own land? Why?
Spend some time thinking about the relationship between human beings and the natural world. Are humans and other creatures of equal worth? Are humans a part of nature or separate from it in some way? Are cities natural? Is it right to use other living things for our food? Is it right to use other living things for our enjoyment? Is it right to catch fish? Is it right to shoot ducks? Is it right to put animals in cages? Why?
Think about your own relationship with the natural world. When you have feelings of peace or beauty or wonder in the wilderness, where do those feelings come from? Think about aspects of the natural world that are nurturing and bountiful, and aspects that are cruel and terrifying. Does the earth care about you? Are there spirits in the wilderness? What are wilderness spirits like? < Previous Next > | 
