by PAUL CHRISTIE 10NOV 2017
We all arrived as the sun was setting over the desert.
Graeme had beautifully arranged a number of his flags and lanterns and had created a wonderful space. The fire pot was going and we were all gathering around it.
Arrernte elders gathered us together and began the smoking ceremony. They welcomed us to their lands and asked that the smoke give us clarity, strength and courage.
Chris Tomlins spoke of the healing power of the smoke and the cleansing powers – but most of all he spoke of its protective powers. He told us that the smoke will shield our spirit and protect us as we enter the courtroom.
They welcomed us as family, telling us we are their white spirit family – we are all connected now.
After we had immersed ourselves in the smoke, the peace pilgrims that were facing court, took turns sitting in the healing Emu Tree. We sat in silence, each of us contemplating what was ahead of us, bringing peace to our hearts, we were told this sacred tree held the Emu dreaming song line for them and that it would also help to protect us.
After this we stood in silence for some time finding peace, listening to the winds across the desert.
We began then to talk. About what is going on the area, about issues of land, issues of law, issues of justice.
We shared food and talk and all was good.
Ilparpa Claypans
Peace Bus crew and Chris Tomlins, local Arrernte elder, set up the space around the Emu tree for the Smoking Ceremony
Many have sat in the Emu Tree to be healed
Each of the Pilgrims facing court spent a few minutes sitting in the healing Emu tree to receive its strength and protection