From Lynn: Last night, at moonrise, we “smudged” the property that is now cleared of trees and brush. Using scent and scented smoke in rites of purification, whether through smudging (the process of using a smudge stick) or burning incense, is common in many traditional cultures around the world.

Our process was led by Lynn’s sister Dale Asrael, an Acharya (senior meditation teacher) from Shambhala Mountain Center and Naropa University, and Fred Jaben, her honey and former Director of the Denver Shambhala Center who were visiting. At Lynn’s request, they kindly offered to conduct a Tibetan chant to bless and clear the property.

We circled the perimeter of the property 3 times holding smudge sticks (smoking clusters of sage) and Dale and Fred used an ancient Tibetan invocation to ward off bad energy and evil spirits. Then we stood at where the front door will be and set intentions for safety during the build, and a vision of beauty, good health, prosperity and love inside the new house. Lots of joy and laughter followed as we sat outside with Lynn’s Dad, Stan, to watch the moon, the fireflies, and think about next steps to follow.

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