The Anam Cara Program

Fall 2009- Dates TBA

Ray Reitze is a man of extraordinary gentleness and sensitivity. A master guide and superb naturalist, Ray learned the ways of living in deep harmony with the Earth as a child.  Rather than leave behind that way of life as so many have, Ray has remained in simple spiritual harmony with all of creation. He has taught wilderness skills, plant lore, canoe building and caretaking of the Earth for 40 years. Our great Alaskan wilderness calls to Ray and he has agreed to begin a teaching relationship with the Anam Cara Program to share his knowledge with us. This intensive held in Homer will be for the opening of the heart, the doorway into the great Oneness in which we all live and bringing us closer to the land in wilderness settings for deeply experiential learning.

Grandfather’s Teachings is a spiritual class with concrete results. Our intention is to sharpen your ability to see the world and to hear your heart so that these skills may guide you through life. To quiet the mind and awaken this awareness we begin and end each day with a guided meditation. During the day we spend time investigating questions such as what the roots of our emotions are, how we can act from love instead of fear, and what stops us from living our dreams. Through meditation, discussion and Ray's humorous stories we come to understand the source of our troubles and why people act as they do. This understanding and awareness helps us to strip away judgment and fear so we may follow our hearts with confidence and peace. Throughout the class we draw upon the wisdom and stillness of nature. Time is spent outside in quiet contemplation as well as in active pursuits. The class gives everyone a chance to experience a simple life where stillness and peace may be found drawing water from the well or lighting the fire to cook a meal. We balance the deep inner work with handwork projects like making a rawhide rattle, a leather pouch, or a wooden spoon. You will leave this experience with a newfound stillness of mind, appreciation for the earth, and clarity of purpose.

Classes are open to all over age eight.  They consist of group discussions and group participation covering Grandfather’s philosophy of being in total oneness with nature.  Ray teaches how to live comfortably off the land and find all need from what is around you.