“The Changing Quest”
Kathie Merrill
In questing I learned that it’s not a one-shot deal; it’s an ongoing venture, ergo the “ing.” It starts when you think of doing it, and for me it never really ends. I have taken quests alone (only one person on the quest), with small groups, with large groups, with Trackers, and with other organizations. I recently reviewed my notes from the last vision quest I took in the pines, a women’s quest led by Elizabeth Moes and assisted by Debbie Tremel and Katlyn Moes. Each quest is different and this was one that stood out for me. Being in the pines and being honored by Tracker leaders I think made a different kind of impact for me. Right now I’m referencing the logistical part of a quest, but I think if you are planning another one, or your first one, it is important to think about. Where and with whom are important factors that have made a difference for me.
On the quest…so different for me each time, always new teachings. My first quest was alone on my property. I was worried about doing it “right.” It rained, I was cold and wet, I was so bored I counted all the species of plants around my circle, I was overwrought with mind-chatter, I thought I wasn’t getting anything…and then…an answer to my question came and I have been following it ever since. Another significant event happened which has affected me in the following years. My deceased dog’s spirit came to me on the last night and gave me instructions. I keep getting opportunities to follow them. The answers to my questions have not always come while on the quest and I have had to adjust to not thinking I hadn’t done it “right.” They DO come! There are many more experiences to share, but I now know that each quest has something to offer, and learnings come in a variety of ways. Insights were proffered from objects, plants, animals, natural topography, and weather events that surrounded me.
I recently reviewed logs from past quests to ferret out significant points. I noted that there are things I went on to do, things I no longer find important to do, things I still want to do, ways of thinking that have changed how I do things, ideas that could still be developed, and more. The take-away is that vision questing changed my thinking, my doings, and my life. I was lovingly guided to ideas and actions that would lead me to be my best self in service to the Creator. Blessings to you on your next quest.
[Reprinted with permission from The Razor’s Edge, vol. 23, no. 1, Spring 2019]