The following post was written by Shkode’e, a participant of the 2016/17 Wilderness Guide Program.

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

What is it like to live out in the forest, in communion with and surrounded by all of nature? It differs in so many ways from life in modern society that it seems to be another world. In our modern way of living, whether we go to work or stay at home, there are doors, windows, and walls; everything closes us in. Our modern cities and villages are like human-created islands, standing isolated in the middle of this huge ocean of nature. But out here in the natural realm, we are learning what it is to be a part of the greater community covering the rest of our planet. Since the start of the Wilderness Guide Program last May, we have been walking this path, practicing following the heartbeat of Mother Earth.

The experience of living immersed in nature has affected us all. There is a sense of belonging. One easily feels cared for and connected. We understand that we are joining a web of relations, already existing for millions of years. They welcome us with open arms. We are accepted and respected as we are. The lake gives us water to drink and to wash. Plants, animals and minerals give food and medicine, clothing, tools, and shelter. We learn to coax the fire (sunlight) out of the wood and we have warmth and something to cook our food with. There is nothing missing. All is taken care of. Our Mother provided for us everything we need to survive; we can feel safe.

The wind touches my face, the cold freezes my breath, and the sun warms my back. The voice of the chickadees and squirrels rings in my ears, the cedar tree spreads her scent and I taste the freshly caught fish. Night and day provide the rhythm of light and dark, and the seasons offer me a different perspective and tasks to focus on in order to live well. All of my senses and actions are connected with the natural surroundings. With this greater community constantly speaking, I don’t need to feel alone. All of this affects us deeply, influencing our ability to live in peace with both ourselves and each other. Trust in life emerges.

Living in the wild requires us to be curious in order to understand what is needed to take care of our needs. Being aware and spontaneous helps us to adapt to living with the continuous changes that arise with nature and the turn of the seasons. Out here, it is easy to live with an awareness of the Hoop of Life, the feeling of interconnection to the diversity of life in our area. At camp I find myself living the way of giving and receiving. It is obvious that everything is connected. I cannot help but appreciate our greater circle!

Shkode’e at Winter Camp

The other side of this is that in order to function and survive, one must learn to flow with the Hoop of Life. Where I place my feet and how I act are determined by what is going on in my surroundings. This is not the same in modern society where I can decide freely what I want to do and when. In the city I can just take care of myself. But out in the wild, I need my clan and I need to know how to be in relationship with all things.

Stay tuned for more stories from Snow Camp!